16 May 2018

Character building and resilience are essential in the grooming of young adults something that the Ramotswa Scout Troop is striving to build amongst their community.

Mr Othusitse Mainole said the Ramotswa Scout Troop was formed in January 2016 by six rover scouts and registered the same year in June.

He said the members range from the age of 8 to 24 years and they meet every Saturday afternoon

“We formed the group for community service purposes. It is not only about the community but for our personal growth and independence of mind,” senior patrol leader, Mr Mainole said.

He said the scouts have an office at the main Kgotla in recognition and support of the movement courtesy of Kgosi Mosadi Seboko of Balete.

He mentioned how thankful they were for the continued support adding that discipline, transparency and honesty were key to winning support and trust.

Mr Mainole said while scouting was mainly known to be done by males, the Ramotswa Scout Troop have decided to break the rules by recruiting female scouts.

“I enjoy being part of this troop as I get to learn life skills through interaction with male members unlike if I was in a troop of females only,” said Ms Busisiwe Nokane who is one of the elders.

The Ramotswa Scout Troop has been positively received in the village and they are often engaged during major events. Often times, Kgosi Mosadi Seboko inspect them as a Guard of Honour to see if they are in good shape.

Ramotswa Scout Troup works hand in hand with the Re Fa Ka Bone, an association which takes care of needs of old aged people and people with mental challenges.

They cook for them, help them bath, and they wash their clothes.

The scout troop has made a backyard garden which produces vegetables that are harvested and prepared for those aided by the association.

“At times when there are funerals we offer security because theft seems to be on a rise and we also do crowd control,” said the assistant unit leader, Mr Obakeng Phage

The group was recognised and honoured with an invitation from the South East District Disability Sport Association in July 2017 to be a part of a community service in Ramotswa.

They had the opportunity to rub shoulders with the members of the Nelson Mandela foundation who were part of the guest list.

Part in the community service also include planting trees.

The troop has made an oath to stay committed to their principles and to have an input in shaping a better tomorrow. Ends