Some residents of Goodhope and Pitsane villages have hailed government for its poverty eradication initiative saying the programmes have had a profound effect in their lives.

They said during kgotla meetings addressed by presidential task team in Pitsane on Wednesday that such programmes had not only impacted upon their lives positively but had gone further to restore lost dignity.

The task team, instituted early this year, is conducting a series of meetings in Goodhope/Mabule constituency to check on progress and impact made thus far and to try to remove bottlenecks inhibiting smooth uptake of programs.

Mr Mompati Maseng, a residents of Pitsane village testified that thanks to Nyeletso-lehuma, he and his wife had been able to use proceeds accrued from the sale of goats not to only get by, but to lead a dignified life.

“We have been able to procure things such as Jojo tanks and contribute at all times in all social activities without any problem,” he said.

Mr Maseng sentiments were shared by Ms Modiriemang Baupane, who although awaiting funding had fire burning in her belly to utilise the programme and living out of the programme.

“Looking at the impact poverty eradication initiatives have had on fellow Batswana, I remain hopeful that my life will never be the same again,” she said.

However, others expressed discontent that they had been made to wait for longer periods even after their proposals had been approved.

They particularly decried lack of communication from relevant offices as far as funding of projects was concerned.

Kgosi Mompati Marumoloa of Goodhope shared the plight of his people especially programmes geared towards empowering youth.

Ms Kgakgamatso Motladiile, a youth from Goodhope was worried that although she applied to be assisted with a tent, social and community development officers had proposed that she change and undertake a different programme.

Social and community development officer, Ms Thabo Kebafetotse however said the suggestion to had Ms Motladiile change her project was due to the realisation that the market was saturated with tent projects.

“This meant therefore the project was not going to be viable, hence our advice for her to consider a different programme,” she said. BOPA