10 Sep 2020

The informal sector has been identified as key in resuscitating Selebi Phikwe economy.

Botswana Association of Local Authorities (BALA) CEO, Mr Steve Pheko, said this during a workshop on Wednesday.

Mr Pheko explained that BALA was aware of the importance of small businesses in the town’s economy.

“We want to see what could be done to continue operating these businesses as per health protocols by mobilising stakeholders to help where ever they can,” said Mr Pheko. Furthermore, Mr Pheko emphasised the need for consultation stating that communities needed to be directly engaged.

“Development should involve the community to best benefit them,” said Mr Pheko.

He acknowledged the impact of COVID-19 and subsequently, the lockdown as having affected the country’s economy due to restricted movements.

Selebi Phikwe town clerk, Mr Steven Motlogelwa, suggested that some businesses could be mobilised to advertise through branding of stalls for vendors to give the town a tidy appearance.

He pleaded with the participants to follow procedures when setting up or operating businesses, adding that people should visit the council offices for inquiries or follow procedure as per the by-law office requirements.

Furthermore, he said remodelling of the bus rank was an opportunity for the informal business sector.  For his part, Selebi Phikwe CEDA branch manager, Mr Ditiro Mangadi, explained that CEDA’s doors where open to assist the informal sector through programmes like Letlhabile and Mabogo Dinku. 

He said Letlhabile was meant to kick start informal businesses that were affected by lockdown but not to grow businesses. 

Mr Mangadi added that another program that was meant for the informal sector was the Mabogo Dinku programme which allows for a group to source funds. Ends