05 Aug 2019

Residents of Flowertown in Mahalapye have been applauded for reviving the spirit of self-reliance which has resulted in the construction of a kgotla shelter.

Officially opening the shelter recently, Vice President Slumber Tsogwane commended the residents and other stakeholders for their commitment saying it was evidence that the self-reliance spirit was capable of driving community development.

He described the ward’s leadership as visionary commended them for spearheading the project and the community for contributing towards construction of the shelter.

He noted that self reliance had always been part and parcel of the country’s culture.

“Endeavours such as motho le motho kgomo and letsema le thata ka mong should forever remain the little threads which bind our people together towards self-reliance, which is an integral principle of our democracy and attainment of national vision 2036.”

Mr Tsogwane said the project would go a long way in improving the delivery of services to the residents.

The shelter would also provide Kgosi with a conducive working environment, he added.

Mr Tsogwane encouraged the Flowertown community to participate in the facility’s maintenance and ensure that it was utilised for its intended purpose.

“Treasure this kgotla and ensure that it is well guarded from any form of vandalism,” he said.

The vice president urged all capable players to complement government efforts by contributing towards community projects.

Describing the kgotla as the base for democratic governance, Mr Tsogwane said Botswana remained united, proud and peaceful because of the system.

The kgotla system was the backbone of unity, he said.

Meanwhile Assistant Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Ms Botlogile Tshireletso also Mahalapye West MP said the Flowertown community deserved  praise for meeting government halfway in the development agenda.

Ms Tshireletso said due to financial constraints, government  sometimes  failed to deliver some desired services on time.

Councillor for Boseja – Flowertown Ward, Mr Tumelo Koolekane said the project was made possible by contributions from the community.

Each household in the ward contributed P50, said Cllr Koolekane.

He said thanks to the project, the community would no longer be exposed to harsh weather conditions during kgotla meetings.

He commended the VDC for its contribution to the project.

“This will stand as evidence that the spirit of self-reliance is still alive, and that through unity it is possible to come together and do something,” said Cllr Koolekane. ENDS