30 May 2019

Francistown city councillors have expressed concern at the slow pace of development projects in the city.

Speaking at the ongoing full council session recently, Councillor Florence Badubi Lekang of Ntshe ward noted the road levy projects, in particular, saying it was a shocker that on paper it was stated that the roads were done, contrary to what was on the ground.

Cllr Lekang questioned the inspection of the roads in question, which she said were of poor quality.

On Constituency Community Projects (CCP), Ms Lekang said the drainage system, which was said to be at 100 per cent complete, was no way near completion.

Councillor Sennye Matsoo of Ikageng ward had wished to see greater progress in terms of developments in Francistown, something she said was perhaps limited by budget cuts.

Touching on other issues, Ms Matsoo said due to the shortage of doctors at Nyangagbwe Referral Hospital, the few available doctors were stretched, thereby leading to poor service.

She however appreciated the three LA2 houses built at Itekeng ward.

Mr Uyapo Nyeku of Phillip Matante East ward said plans were not implemented accordingly, giving an example of the modification of a civic centre into a double storey, a plan that he said was not being fulfilled.

“We have to lead by example, practice what we preach, but that’s not what we are doing” he added.

For his part, Councillor Lesego Kwambala of Itekeng ward advised that government should consider partnering with the private sector in this regard for better medical services.

Mr Kwambala questioned government initiative to provide breakfast at primary schools, saying although good, the decision was taken prematurely and with little planning.

“The public should be taught ways in which they can sustain themselves and not depend a lot on government,” he said. ENDS