Minister of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Mr Ketlhalefile Motshegwa, has acknowledged delays in the disposal of unserviceable government goods in Kgalagadi South, citing non-adherence to established disposal procedures. Responding to a question in Parliament on Wednesday to address concerns over the prolonged storage of obsolete items in the district, Mr Motshegwa confirmed that the delay was caused by a lapse in implementing the approved disposal plan. 

The setback, he explained, resulted from administrative shortcomings in executing the structured process required for the disposal of government assets. 

“It is true that unserviceable goods in Kgalagadi South have taken a long time to be disposed of due to failure to adhere to the disposal plan. However, the Ministry has now put measures in place to ensure that an auction sale was conducted on May 7 this year,” he said.” 

He further pointed out that the ministry had assured the public that corrective measures had been taken to prevent similar delays in future and to ensure that disposal processes were conducted in accordance with government regulations. 

Member of Parliament for Kgalagadi South, Mr Tokyo Modise, had asked the minister about prolonged delays in the disposal of unserviceable goods at tribal administration offices in the district. 

MP Modise wanted the minister to explain why obsolete government items were left in open storage areas for extended periods while awaiting auction sales. He noted that in some instances, the goods remained exposed for years, significantly diminishing in value due to harsh weather conditions. 

He expressed concern that the situation not only led to financial losses for government but also reflected inefficiencies in asset management. He further sought clarification on the measures being taken to ensure that disposal processes were conducted in a timely and efficient manner to safeguard public resources. ENDS