03 Apr 2018

Assistant Minister of Agricultural Development and Food Security, Mr Kgotla Autlwetse says he is aware of concerns of farmers regarding the quality of roads as oversized material was used, resulting in poor road surface finish.

Mr Autlwetse said the contractor was notified and instructed to rectify the defect, but had not yet fulfilled his obligations of the contract.

Mr Autlwetse said discussions between the ministry and the contractor were at an advanced stage to agree on how to exit the contract, and how the financial implications of rectifying the defects would be discharged.

The assistant minister said the matter was brought to his attention in September 2015.

In addition, he explained that the infrastructure maintenance arrangements were that after the final handing over of the infrastructure by the contractor, his ministry would outsource routine maintenance for a period of one year after which the farmer’s association would take over.

Member of Parliament for Chobe, Mr Machana Shamukuni had asked the minister to give an update on the progress regarding the Pandamatenga Agro-Infrastructure Project, stating infrastructure maintenance arrangements in place post project completion.

He further asked the minister if he was aware of concerns by farmers regarding the quality of roads, and the actions taken after the concerns were raised as well as when the matter was brought to his attention. ENDS