30 Jul 2017

 
Sixty-nine-year-old Mr Molai Maiketso still insists on working hard despite age catching up with him.

Mr Maiketso of Moshaweng is one of the few who has put to good use the experience gained when working in the mines. To him, age is nothing but a number while experience is priceless.

The old man owns a welding business in Jwaneng, courtesy of government’s poverty eradication programme.

Armed with Trade C in welding, Mr Maiketso said he was one of the first Batswana to be involved in establishments of mines in the country.

He acquired the skills when working at Phikwe Smelter under BCL mine, a craft he learnt at a younger age, perfecting his skill over time.

“I was instrumental in the Gauteng surveys and this gave me a status to be known among the first Batswana welders, and to be employed by Botswana mines,” he said.

He said being the most trusted in welding around the country, he travelled most parts of the country on welding missions. Retracing his work experience, he said he worked in most of the mines both in South Africa and Botswana.

Having retired in 1989, he said he was pushed by passion to continue welding at home.

Though he started operating at the backyard of his home in Jwaneng, he later secured funds and some operational space from government. As one enters his yard, you are met by scraps of metals and steel structures in his workshop. Artefacts range from agricultural machineries, donkey carts, trailers, braai stands and brick moulding frames.

Mr Maiketso thanked government for having assisted him with a welding machine, a grinder, drilling machine and steel compressor through poverty eradication programme.

“I have found a niche market from farmers who buy mostly planters at around P21 000, an income which sustain me for months. I believe in quality and good customer service and my customers are happy about the products,” said Mr Maiketso.

Alongside welding, the father of seven noted that he was also a farmer who believed in self-employment. Mr Maiketso’s dream is to grow and employ other Batswana to help him in the business.ENDS