05 Aug 2026

Parliament has adopted an urgent motion calling on government to authorise the recruitment of able-bodied casual labourers aged 60 years and above during national emergencies.

The motion, tabled by Shoshong MP, Mr Moneedi Bagaisamang on Tuesday, cited the current Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak as an example where older citizens could be engaged to erect fences.

Mr Bagaisamang argued that such recruitment should not be left to the discretion of accounting officers, but be provided for in law to cover future emergencies.

“These citizens are essential in emergencies like the current FMD outbreak where they could be engaged to erect fences,” he said.

The motion received wide support across the House.

Minister of Lands and Agriculture and Goodhope-Mmathethe MP Dr Edwin Dikoloti said employing retired citizens as fence erectors would bring multiple benefits. 

“Engaging retired citizens comes with vast experience and knowledge, community ownership, reliable manpower, as well as responsibility and maturity,” Dr Dikoloti said. 

He added that the retirees would also provide mentorship to younger workers, having expertise in various fields. The physical work, he noted, could also help the elderly stay active and reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases.

Gaborone Bonnington North MP and Assistant Minister for State President, Defence and Security Ms Maipelo Mophuting-Dikoloti said the proposal aimed to ‘maximise the contributions of older citizens, uphold their dignity and strengthen the national response in times of need.’

“This motion recognises that older individuals remain capable and eager to serve when given the opportunity. Age should not determine an individual’s ability to contribute to national development,” Ms Mophuting-Dikoloti said.

She said many elderly citizens have decades of experience in labour-intensive sectors such as agriculture and construction, and their value lies in their work ethic, resilience and experience. She urged government to match older workers with suitable tasks and to use them to mentor younger workers.

Lentsweletau-Lephephe MP Mr Tshenolo Bogatsu said retired citizens were well placed to coordinate tasks during emergencies. 

“They have the interest, passion and the know-how,” he said.

Molepolole South MP Mr Shima Monageng also backed the motion, saying the age group has deep knowledge of cattle movement and local terrain, which would be valuable in responding to the FMD outbreak.  He further urged that local traditional authorities be involved in the recruitment process. The motion was adopted by Parliament. ENDS