03 Jul 2018

Government departments and parastatals took services to Motlhabaneng in Bobirwa recently, an initiative appreciated by the community.

Speaking at the event, Bobirwa Sub-district deputy district commissioner, Mr Mooketsi Lesetedi appreciated the departments that honoured the event.

Mr Lesetedi said it was imperative for the community of Motlhabaneng to be acquainted with programmes offered by government and the changes made after the inauguration of President Mokgweetsi Masisi in April.

He explained that there were changes that the President made after assuming power such as allowing Herero women and others who wore head gear for religion and cultural purposes to do so when taking photographs for national identity cards.

Mr Lesetedi also informed residents that key areas in President Masisi’s road map was reducing unemployment hence he required for cooperation in eliminating impediments to economic development.

Meanwhile, immigration officer, Mr Dikgang Mogokgwane informed residents that government took a decision to replace xx/xx in Omang cards for those who did not know their birth dates with 01/01 of the year they suspect to have been born in.

Further, he said those over the age of 65 would no longer be required to bring witnesses or an affidavit when renewing their national identity cards especially for those initially with birth dates xx.

Citizen Entrepreneurial Development Agency (CEDA) representative, Mr Tshepo Keletso said they offered Batswana loans at low interest rates for feasible business plans.

Mr Keletso encouraged residents to take advantage of the loans since they were aimed at assisting the unemployed to own businesses and create employment.

SPEDU communication and corporative executive, Ms Keneilwe Mase explained the on-going SPEDU development projects in the sub-district such as the farm electrification project from Selibe-Phikwe to Bobonong along Motloutse River and the construction of the Platjaan Border Bridge.

The bridge construction which commenced in January this year, Ms Mase said was experiencing some delays but stated that SPEDU would monitor the project to ensure completion.

Earlier Kgosi Bethuel Machete encouraged residents to use the open day as an opportunity to access services.

Councillor for Motlhabaneng/Lentswelemoriti, Mr Victor Mphee commended the departments and parastatals for taking time to visit Motlhabaneng.

Different government departments such Immigration and Citizenship, Civil and National Registration, Veterinary and Animal Production, Gender Affairs, Roads, Ipelegeng, Constituency office, Bobonong Sub Land-board, CEDA, Water Utilities Corporation, SPEDU and Botswana Tourism Organisation took part. ENDS