25 Oct 2023

Residents of Shokomokwa and Nxabe settlements, within Shorobe catchment, area have been advised to look for amicable ways to sort out their differences surrounding the water borehole project.

Member of Parliament for Maun East, Mr Goretetse Kekgonegile advised them when responding to some comments raised during a kgotla meeting with regard to where the borehole should be drilled.

Some residents of Shokomokwa argued that initially, the water borehole which was funded through Constituency Community Projects (CCP) was supposed to be drilled in their settlement but to their surprise they learnt that it would be drilled at Nxabe, five kilometres from them.

Residents decried severe water shortage in their area noting that they were pinning their hopes on the said project to be a permanent solution.

“We have been drinking unclean water from the Thamalakane River and the issue pains us because the water was not good for our health and wellness,” said Ms Selelo Manga, chairperson of Shokomukwa/Nxabe action group.

Another resident, Mr Mbigani Julius concurred that they were promised a borehole and authorities made some changes without consulting them despite identifying a place where the borehole would be drilled.

Although, he appreciated that Wilderness Safari Company and its partners drilled a borehole in the area last year in a bid to quench thirst, unfortunately, he said it was not operating as the water was reported to be contaminated.

He said they had no choice but to fetch from the river because they needed it for everyday life activities including household chores. Mr Julius proposed that the borehole should be strategically placed to benefit residents from both areas.

However, area MP, Mr Kekgonegile advised residents from both areas to organise a meeting to reach a consensus noting that initially, they were informed that residents agreed that the boreholes should be drilled at Nxabe as there was one at Shokomukwa.

“Issues of contaminated water are new and I suggest that you call a general meeting and iron out your differences to pave way for commencement of the water project,” he added.

The area MP also noted that his office would engage Wilderness Company to see how best they could pump out contaminated water from the borehole so that the community could enjoy a good supply of water.

Senior economist from North West District Council, Mr Thero Ditshego told the gathering tha consultation was conducted and residents agreed that the borehole be drilled at Nxabe.

The funding for the project, he said had been reserved adding that the contractor engaged to drill the borehole had disappeared and they had to retender adding that some people had showed interest and assured them that before the end of the year, the new contractor would be on site.

“We act on your consent as the community and once you identify the site for the project, it will commence so that you enjoy potable water,” he added.

On other issues, Mr Kekgonegile urged residents to register in the upcoming voter registration exercise slated for November 1 to 30. 

He also informed them that their ward now fell under Maun North constituency following the delimitation process.

He also informed them that Shorobe-Mababe gravel road would be m soon as the contract had been signed. Residents had requested for  the road to be tarred as it was corrugated and bumpy and it is of economic benefit in that it contributes to the tourism sector.

But, Mr Kekgonegile noted that the road would be improved to make it passable. 

He appreciated that the road had a lot of traffic because of tourists on transit to the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. 

The dusty road is also used by big trucks transporting goods to different safari camps in the delta.ENDS