27 Jan 2020

Member of Parliament for Selebi Phikwe East, Mr Kgoberego Nkawana has proposed the setting up of community co-operatives as part of efforts to resuscitate the town’s economy.

Addressing a kgotla meeting at Botshabelo kgotla recently, Mr Nkawana advised the residents to be optimistic as he brought positive energy and ideas that would resuscitate the town’s economy through unity and self-reliance.

He said he believed that the town was sitting on a goldmine, revealing how the rubble left from mining at the BCL mine could be recycled to make sand, concrete, cement, bricks and paint through co-operatives or community trusts.

He said the BCL farm could be used for community projects that would benefit the residents.

The MP vowed to do everything in his power to acquire the farm for the benefit of the community of Selebi Phikwe and cited Okavango region as an example of such.

He advised the constituents not to sit on the sidelines, while foreigners come to set up businesses in town.

He urged them to consult with their councillors on how to source funds from both local and international entities to set up community trusts.

Furthermore, Mr Nkawana proposed the transformation of the number one shaft within the BCL mine into a tourist destination, saying that this was possible since the town had skilled ex-miners, educators and intellectuals.

Botshabelo Central VDC Chairperson, Mr Ronald Chilume said constituency projects continued as planned, citing the construction of the wall at Selebi Phikwe library.

He however said the VDC was experiencing shortage of resources like allowances and stationery and pleaded with the MP to follow up.

He said closure of the mine had left most residents in financial turmoil and suggested the opening of some shafts that could be mined to create jobs for locals.

Commenting on some of the questions, the mayor, Mr Lucas Modimana said residents should consult with their councillors about any local or national issues.

Mr Modimana said community trusts were viable, citing the  Sankoyo in the North West and the Moremi trust at Moremi in Tswapong region as some of theose that were thriving. ENDS