26 Aug 2013

While government has over the years outsourced vehicle service and repairs to motor dealers and other private mechanical workshops, this arrangement has been beset by challenges as some operators were unable to perform to the required standard.

The Minister of Transport and Communications, Mr Nonofo Molefhi said this at the opening of Zambezi Motors workshop in Francistown over the weekend.

He said the process was part of government’s broad strategy to empower local businesses, build their capacity and ensure their growth. The minister noted that while they were keen to expand this arrangement, it would not be pursued at a cost to service delivery and quality workmanship.“We are in the process of reviewing the current service level agreements with all our stakeholders to ensure that we get value for money on the services we procure,” he stressed.

Mr Molefhi said the opening of the dealership and mechanical workshop was a welcome development as Francistown was the gateway to the north and to countries beyond the Zambezi River. Its strategic location, he noted, would not only serve the range of government clients but could offer extended service beyond the borders.

The attendance of Zimbabwean and Malawian ministers at the opening of the workshop was a testimony to the importance they attach to the company, he said.

Mr Molefhi also noted that government manages a fleet of more than 10 000 vehicles, heavy plant and machinery of various makes and models. These assets, he highlighted, were deployed throughout the country even in tough terrains.

 On other issues, the minister said the bulk of government’s fleet was deployed in rural areas thus it was important that repair workshops were strategically located to complement services offered through the Central Transport Organisation.  “We can no longer afford to open additional government workshops around the country while such services are available in the market,” he said. Zambezi Motors workshop, said the minister, would also cut costs of transporting vehicles from northern Botswana to Gaborone even for minor repairs.

  He said taking services to clients was commendable and would enhance parts availability for CTO to timeously attend to minor problems. Mr Molefhi cautioned some companies that sell goods and services to government against overcharging. He said they would continue to monitor this behaviour and if it does not change, they would have no option but to procure directly from manufacturers. ENDS