24 Sep 2017

The National Spatial Plan draft document (NSP) 2036 has proposed that Maun should be developed as an ecological-city.

The plan, which is a framework that will provide a holistic approach to all physical planning in Botswana addresses the need to plan spatially for the future including a larger population.

Chief planner from the Ministry of Land Management, Water and Sanitation Services, Mr Kebonyemodisa Ooke briefed the full council meeting on the proposed plan and its themes.

While countries were moving towards green economy, he said Maun had already shown signs hence government should, as a way forwad, consider it as a city more  than the village towards green economy.

Mr Ooke stated that all SADC corridors that the plan had proposed also pass through Maun, which meant the area was better placed than any other area in the country.

The corridors, he said aimed to promote regional integration, cross border tourism and city to city links.

In addition, he said government would have to prioritise  construction of roads such as Maun/Sehithwa, Maun/Francistown and some new roads that connect Maun and Kasane, Maun and Kweneng.

“There is need for a new road that connects Maun and Central Kalahari Game Reserve as tourists travel long distance to reach the place,” he added.

Mr Ooke said a feasibility study would have to be conducted on where new roads could pass to all developments that a city should have citing the international airport.

He also stressed that in future double-storey buildings would be recommended in order to utilise the land effectively.

In addition, he told council that waste water issues needed to be well addressed.

For instance, he said Maun region had 29 sewage facilities, which could be addressed by having one regional facility that combines all.

Councillors also learnt that the plan had proposed stronger international connection, which means aviation expansion, expanded and efficient railway network.

However, Mr Ooke explained to councillors that the intention was to complete the plan by end of this year so that the relevant minister could present it to Parliament for approval. ENDS