08 Jun 2026

Residents of Goroku in Maun North have raised concerns over a sewage-contaminated area near their settlement, stating that it has become a hotspot for crime, human-wildlife conflict, and potential health risks.

The concerns were raised during a kgotla meeting addressed by the Member of Parliament for Maun North, Mr Dumelang Saleshando, where community members appealed for urgent government intervention.

Resident Ms Martha Eagleton said wastewater discharged into a forested area near the settlement has created severe challenges for both people and livestock. 

She explained that elephants and other wild animals were frequently drawn to the area, increasing dangerous encounters between wildlife and residents.

Ms Eagleton further noted that livestock often drunk the wastewater, raising serious concerns about the health and safety of animals that many families depended on for their livelihoods.

Additionally, she stated that the area had become a hiding place for criminals involved in livestock theft, noting that she had fallen victim to these thieves.

“I had a lot of cattle which helped me to manage my house and take care of my family, but now I have become poor because all my livestock has been taken by thieves in that wastewater area,” she said.

According to residents, thieves take advantage of the dense vegetation surrounding the pond to conceal stolen livestock before moving them elsewhere.

“The area has become dangerous for both people and animals,” Ms Eagleton added.

Another resident, Ms Segametsi Morokotso, echoed similar concerns, arguing that the wastewater discharge continued to negatively affect the community. 

She alleged that criminal activities associated with the area had resulted in devastating losses for some residents and called for immediate intervention.

The issue forms part of wider concerns raised by residents regarding safety, environmental management, and the protection of livelihoods in the settlement. 

The Goroku community has appealed to authorities to investigate the matter and explore possible solutions to mitigate the risks associated with the wastewater.

Responding to the residents, Mr Saleshando, acknowledged their concerns and assured the community that the matter would be brought to the attention of the relevant government departments for consideration.

He further urged residents to continue working together to come up with possible community-led solutions, advising them not to rely solely on local authorities since official interventions might take time to resolve their issues. ENDS