20 Jun 2023

Residents of Monarch location in Francistown have been implored to work with law enforcement agencies to curb increasing drug usage especially amongst the youth.

The residents have been told that drug use was increasing at an alarming rate in Monarch, something which contributed to other criminal activities in order to sustain this habit.  

The call was made by Inspector Dobe Lungisani of the Botswana Police service during a kgotla meeting addressed by Francistown West Mmember of Parliament, Mr Ignatius Moswaane on Sunday.

Inspector Lungisani explained that drugs such as dagga and Cat were rampantly used by the youth to while away time. He blamed some parents for selling drugs to young people.  

His comment followed residents’ complaints about drug use amongst the youth.

One of the residents, Mr Thabo Keoraletse advised parents to play their role in their children’s upbringing.

He said it was only through partnership that criminal activities such as the use of drugs could be addressed, adding that Botswana was now home to drugs.

The residents also complained about poor drainage system, high water bills, poor street lighting and electricity cable theft in their location.

They called on government to address the challenges before they got out of hand.

Ward Development Committee chairperson, Ms Dorothy Mokgosi informed the MP that there was a football playground in their area that remained unutilised, noting that the play ground could help keep the youth off streets and from social ills.

She also indicated that water bills were very high which led to disconnections and urged government to meet residents half way in paying their bills. Ward Development committee chairperson for Monarch south, Mr Danile Jarabane said poor water drainage system remained a major concern, as dirty water flooded the streets which could lead to water borne disease, such as Cholera.

He also stated that poor street lighting was a contributing factor to criminal activities as criminals took advantage of the dark.

Mr Jarabane said Ipelegeng workers needed protective clothing. In his remarks, area Councillor, Mr Tumelo Oduetse said financial constraints was a setback in implementing some of the projects earmarked.

He said government was committed to developing Batswana through various programmes and policies.

Mr Oduetse further indicated that electricity cable theft was of concern as it led to electricity blackouts. 

Kgosi Pogisego Mosarwe complained about poor attendance of kgotla meetings by the residents.  

He said the kgotla system provided a good platform for Batswana to discuss issues pertaining to developments and livelihoods, hence it was paramount to attend. ENDS