28 Jul 2022

Bobonong constituency electorates, especially the elderly, have been encouraged to shake off their information and technology fears.

Speaking during the testing of Parliament’s Botswana Speaks online platform, Bobonong MP Mr Taolo Lucas said through it,  electorates would not only keep abreast of policy issues but would cut costs of having to go to the constituency office for interaction.

The initiative is aimed at enhancing democracy through public participation and policy dialogue.

Mr Lucas said although there was no budget for the project, plans would be made to introduce it to villages while simultaneously registering those wishing to participate.

He encouraged his electorate to embrace technology saying it existed to enhance democracy and life in general.

“I know that the mention of an email address has sent shivers down the spines of many of you especially the senior citizens. But you should remain calm as we have officers trained to help you in that regard,” said Mr Lucas.

The Bobonong legislator also encouraged senior citizens and those who were not technologically savvy to seek help from their children.

“Let not the fear of technology scare you from interacting with your MP’s office regarding issues you deem of importance to your lives,” Mr Lucas said.

The MP called on his constituents to keep up to date with technological advancements in order to enhance their lives.

Speaking at the same occasion, Kgosi Joel Masilo revealed that dikgotla now had free Wi-Fi while preparations were in progress for connecting all the traditional epicentres.

Saying information technology had made life easier, Kgosi Masilo added that even farmers could easily communicate the challenges they faced from the comfort of their cattle-posts.

He called on the people to embrace Botswana Speaks for easy communication.

According to the officer responsible for Botswana Speaks in the Bobonong MP’s office, although the system encouraged the use of online platforms and text messaging,  it did not put a stop to walk-ins.

Mr Dimpho Mashaba said instead, the platform enhanced interaction between the electorate and the MP’s office.ENDS