28 Jun 2020

Southern District commissioner, Mr Mmoloki Raletobana, has underscored the need for government to prioritise local businesses when awarding tenders.

Speaking at a COVID-19 team meeting addressed by the Vice President, Mr Slumber Tsogwane in Moshupa on Thursday, Mr Raletobana said local artisans had proven their capabilities during lockdown because they managed to successfully deliver on the maintenance jobs they were awarded.

He recommended that big tenders be awarded in segments to ensure that many companies benefitted.

He said such a move would go a long way in empowering citizens and improving their areas’ economic status.

On other issues, Mr Raletobana commended village development committees (VDCs) for being instrumental in the food relief programme intended to cushion Batswana against effects of COVID-19.

He said they helped social workers to timeously identify households, which were hardest hit. However, he requested government to consider VDCs plea to be remunerated at the rate of Ipelegeng wages as compared to sitting allowance.

“Their request is valid because they were getting sitting allowance which is less than the usual wages,” Mr Raletobana added.

For his part, Moshupa MP Mr Karabo Gare said Batswana should draw lessons from the lockdown period.

He said they should work towards being self-sufficient thereby reducing the import bill.

Mr Gare, also Assistant Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, said plans were underway to amend CEDA guidelines so that more Batswana could benefit.

Additionally, he noted that the Citizen Economic Empowerment Bill would hopefully be finalised in the next Parliament sitting thereby providing for more Batswana to play a role in the economy.

“Economic diversification from diamonds and tourism would also create the much-needed jobs for Batswana,” he noted.

Mr Gare called on local authorities to empower citizens by awarding them tenders within their localities.

He said proper monitoring will give Batswana experience and expertise needed for bigger jobs. ENDS