05 Dec 2017

Construction of Gabane infrastructure development project through the Economic Stimulus Programme is expected to give the village a major facelift and increase its economic status, says Assistant Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Mr Frans Van Der Westhuizen.

Giving a keynote address at the launch of the Gabane Infranstructure Development project, Mr Van Der Westhuizen said Gabane had over the years experienced growth, which called for developmental challenges, hence the need for an upgrade on infrastructure development.

Mr Van Der Westhuizen stated that the project scope included construction of  bitumen standard road of 21.2 kilometres and storm water drainage and street lighting of 4.5 kilometres. 

He said the project commenced on August 14 and it was expected to be completed by November 13, 2019 at a cost of over P214 million.

The project, he said was one of the only major projects approved for implementation under his ministry during the National Development Plan 11.

With a population of over 15 000 in the 2011 population census, Mr Van Der Westhuizen noted that it was projected  that Gabane was designated to be a primary center as it would be grown significantly by the next census.

He said the national settlement policy provided that such a designated settlement be provided with a high order of infrastructure and services since it envisaged a high potential for development and investment.

“Faced with such a phenomenal growth, the council is facing an enormous responsibility of facilitating and providing infrastructure that will match up with such a population growth,” he said.

He alluded the fact that the Gabane infrastructure project was a step in the right direction to enhance the infrastructural development in the village and alternatively make Gabane a viable alternative investment location and boost the village to create sustainable economic activities and employment opportunities. 

The assistant minister pleaded with the community to have patience and support the constructor as there were certain expected disruptions in the village prior to the commencement of the project.

Further speaking on behalf of the constructor, an official from Ashalt Botswana, Mr Pius Mphathiwa stated that his company was committed to deliver the project on time and within scope and budget.

He highlighted that Ashalt Botswana was a fully citizen-owned company with immense experience in projects of such nature as they believe that Botswana deserved excellent services, especially on infrastructure.

Mr Mphathiwa stated that with proper infrastructure in place, more developments would follow as Gabane and surrounding areas would be able to attract investment and tourism, which were key components towards improving quality of lives for locals.

 He said it was gratifying to note that government continued to support citizen contractors to deliver quality infrastructure projects, something he said was in line with government’s economic empowerment policy, which promotes effective participation of the locals in the economic growth and development of their own country. ENDS