04 Dec 2024

The Ministry of Local Government and Human Settlements has outlined its essential services aimed at enhancing the lives of residents and businesses within demarcated areas. 

The Ministry’s functions encompasses a wide array of responsibilities, including social care, education, housing and planning, waste collection, licensing, business support, registrar services, and disease control.

Speaking during an induction course for newly elected and nominated Serowe District Councillors held on Monday, Mr Godimo Garegope, the Director of Transformation under the Ministry of Water and Human Settlement, elaborated on the funding mechanisms for local councils.

He explained that councils collect taxes from local property owners and also receive funds from the central government. These financial resources, he said were crucial for addressing local matters such as town planning, waste collection, water and sewage management, and maintaining local road infrastructure.

Mr Garegope, a former Council Secretary for the Central District Council, emphasised that the primary objective of the councilors is to create policies that effectively govern their district and ensure that both existing and new laws cater to the needs of the community.

“Their roles include delivering services tailored to local needs, empowering the community with a voice in governance, and improving the quality of life and overall community well-being,” said Mr Garegope.

The Serowe District Council comprises 29 councilors, including those nominated. This marks an increase from 24 councilors in the previous term prior to the general elections.

Mr Garegope highlighted the significance of local governance, noting that it brings services closer to the public and fosters a system where constituents can directly influence decision-making. He stated that residents have the power to vote based on council performance and that local councils can conduct referenda and consultations, ensuring that community voices are heard.

Councils play a vital role in nurturing local democracy and governance, while also promoting social welfare and economic empowerment for marginalized groups.

“Our mandate includes reducing poverty and developing opportunities for income generation and participation in economic activities for the people of Botswana,” Mr Garegope added

He further noted that councils were responsible for creating employment opportunities and encouraging active participation in development planning and execution, aiming for broad-based, balanced, and sustainable growth.

Mr Garegope underscored that councils must advocate for their communities’ interests while delivering necessary local services and infrastructure. He affirmed that local authorities are essential for the economic, social, and environmental well-being of their regions, with a responsibility to advise the Central Government on maintaining quality control throughout their areas. Ends