13 Jul 2026

Kgosi Ishamel Legwaila of Botshabelo Ward in Selebi Phikwe has expressed concern over misuse of government social welfare programmes by some beneficiaries.

He said some beneficiaries had a tendency of exchanging social welfare benefits such as food items for alcohol, something that undermined government efforts to improve the welfare of vulnerable members of the society.

“Such unfortunate practices defeat the purpose of programmes, which are established to cushion vulnerable individuals and households against hardship and improve quality of life,” he said during a kgotla meeting addressed by Selebi Phikwe Town Council Social and Community Development officials recently.

The meeting was to inform residents that a decision had been made to transition from the current coupon system and the Zebra card to the Botswana Building Society Bank prepaid card.

Kgosi Legwaila underscored the need for members of the community including beneficiaries to understand that the programmes were designed to provide social protection through safety nets.

He further explained that the government invested substantial financial resources in social welfare initiatives to ensure that disadvantaged citizens had access to basic necessities.

 He therefore, urged beneficiaries to use the programmes responsibly and discouraged from illegal sales of such food items.  

 “Using government assistance responsibly means aligning the support with its intended purpose. I urge beneficiaries to appreciate the support extended to them and complement it through positive lifestyle choices and self-reliance where possible,” he said.

Chief Social and Community Development Officer, Mr Kgakgamatso Ditshego said the transition from the Zebra coupon card system to direct cash transfers through Botswana Building Society Bank accounts was expected to improve convenience and restore dignity.

The new arrangement, he said no longer restricts beneficiaries to selected shopping outlets as cash would be deposited into their BBS accounts, enabling them to purchase food items from any supermarket of their choice

Mr Ditshego also indicated that the transition reflected government’s continued efforts to modernise social protection programmes and improve service delivery.

He further urged beneficiaries to familiarise themselves with the new arrangement and to safeguard their bankcards, and banking information.

 “This transition assures the government’s commitment toward strengthening and improving social welfare programmes and ensuring that the assistance reaches deserving beneficiaries in a manner that promotes dignity, accountability and choice,” he added. ENDS