30 Aug 2013

Poverty eradication programme beneficiaries in the North East District have been urged to show appreciation of government’s efforts to help them break free from the clutches of poverty.

Addressing beneficiaries at a training workshop in Masunga , North East District Council deputy chairperson, Mr Bakani Badziili encouraged beneficiaries to work diligently to ensure that their businesses break even.

Mr Badziili, who is also councillor for Siviya, cautioned beneficiaries against negligence and lack of proper care of their chosen businesses saying that would result in the businesses collapsing and government losing a lot of money in the process.

The councillor implored beneficiaries to take seriously the opportunity they had been afforded to turn their lives around.

He noted that since support from the extended family system had been dwindling over the past years, life had become unbearable for the less-privileged members of society, hence government’s decision to help empower those living in abject poverty.

Beneficiaries were also encouraged to choose projects they were passionate about, something he observed, would increase the survival rate of the business in the face of challenges.

Cllr Badziili further cautioned beneficiaries against adopting a silo mentality.

He pointed out that it would be easier for them to surmount challenges when they worked in teams.He stressed that this would also ensure that they were readily available to support each other during difficult times.

However, Cllr Badziili also pleaded with those who go into business partnerships to have clear laid-down regulations that would direct their daily activities.

Such regulations, he indicated, would be advantageous if any conflicts arise and will provide guidance when difficult business decisions need to be taken.

Outlining the objective of the training earlier, Department of Gender Affairs officer in Francistown, Ms Tebogo Keakantse stated that the purpose of the workshop was to equip beneficiaries with skills necessary for the effective running of their businesses. Ends