25 Sep 2017

Over 785 houses have so far been handed to the less privileged and vulnerable members of the community, says Assistant Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Mr Frans Van Der Westhuizen.

Officiating at the handing over of a house furnished with beds, kitchen utensils, groceries and other households that totalled P169 513  to Ms Boitumelo Gulubane and her two younger siblings recently in Tatisiding, Mr Van Der Westhuizen said it was a noble gesture and milestone to see Batswana coming together to promote dignity among the less privileged members of the community.

He further explained that it was evident that government alone could not assist all those in need, hence partnerships and interventions by non-governmental organisations, the private sector and individuals was crucial.

Giving an overview of the project, the assistant court bailiff Ms Kelebogile Kehitile of Tatisiding Tribal Administration office said the project was the brain child of their office led by Tatisiding’s Kgosi Simon Nkgageng in pursuit of being a just and caring nation.

She said with the help of social workers based in Tatisiding, they were able to pick the Gulubane family as the most deserving of the housing appeal.

Ms Kehitile said that the team was faced with challenges of insufficient funds for building materials, plumbing, roofing, tiling, water connection, electrification of the house, bedding and payment of builders.

She however noted that with donations from local businessmen, Mr Vadakkemadam Santanamurthy and Mr Nalin Ferreira, Lebiibii Company, Ray Morgan Agencies and La Modimo Charity Centre the project was completed.

The Gulubanes were advised  to take care of the house to ensure it remained in good condition for decades to come. ENDS