16 Jul 2013

No feasibility study was carried out during the relocation of the Gumare airstrip to the current location in 1994 since the facility was provided based on the social need of the area, the Minister of Transport and Communications has told Parliament.

Although the community was not consulted, Mr Nonofo Molefhi said consultations were done with the Tawana Land Board, district commissioner, North West District Council and tribal administration. Mr Molefhi was responding to a question asked by Ngami MP, Mr Taolo Habano.

He explained that the works for the construction of the airfield were done at a cost of over P1.5 million excluding the cost of other services such as water and electricity, which were responsibilities of other authorities.

Mr Molefhi said airfields were strategically located throughout the country to facilitate the movement of people and provision of services, therefore the construction of the Gumare airstrip was informed by the need to provide services during times of disaster, assistance during medical emergencies and to promote growth of the tourism industry.

He said currently installation of an electrified perimeter fence for the facility was ongoing and plans were in place to rehabilitate the runway pavement during the current financial year subject to availability of funds.

Mr Habano had asked whether a feasibility study was carried out before the construction of the Gumare Airstrip, the access road, installation of water pipeline and the reticulation of power to the airstrip. He also wanted to know if local authorities were fully consulted and whether the ministry had any plans to revive the project. ENDS