23 Oct 2025

Local authorities have been urged to support the informal sector to help ensure that it thrives.

Assistant Minister of Local Government and Traditional Affairs Mr Ignatius Moswaane said this when addressing Ikoga residents on Monday. Mr Moswaane said the informal sector was the largest employer in the country and therefore an important contributor to the economy.

He therefore said local authorities should strive to help the sector, noting that availing market stalls for use by informal sector businesses was one way through which councils could help anchor small-scale businesses.

Mr Moswaane said councils, through their bye-law offices, should refrain from closing down small businesses for operating without licenses but should rather assist them comply with licensing requirements.

He said the new administration was committed to supporting businesses by removing regulations that impeded entrepreneurship. Mr Moswaane also implored the village’s youth to work together to create opportunities for themselves and to contribute towards the development of their village.

The assistant minister further urged the leadership of the Okavango District to address the issue of bats infestation that was affecting government institutions, including staff housing in the district, saying it would have a negative impact in  people’s health if not dealt with.

When commenting, a resident Mr Bafenyang Ngaka pointed out that setting up and running campsites was one business which Ikoga youth could operate but that they needed support to be able to pursue such a dream.

Another resident Mr Bokhutlo Mukwa said Ikoga needed a recreational facility where traditional dance groups and other artists could showcase their talent. ENDS