22 Jan 2015

Kgosi Rebagamang Rancholo of Nata has questioned whether Tutume Sub-district Council has staff whose work is to inspect government facilities for maintenance purposes.

He raised this during a kgotla meeting addressed by MP for Nata/Gweta, Mr Polson Majaga on January 21 in Nata.

Kgosi Rancholo noted that besides the fact that government had experienced economic downturn, they were never informed that even maintenance will not be done, except that projects, which needed more money had been deferred.

He stated that the status of government facilities, particularly at Nata primary and junior schools was deplorable.

Kgosi Rancholo said 14 classes at the primary school were taught outside as the classrooms were in no state to accommodate students. He added that even the lavatories block was in a bad state as there were no seats and doors; hence students were forced by circumstances to use them in such a state.

Furthermore, he pointed out that although most of the schools around the country no longer used pit latrines, their schools, except the senior school did not have water system toilets.

On other issues, Kgosi Rancholo decried high crime rates in the village, noting that it was almost mid-month of the New Year but already they had registered more than 30 cases mostly assaults and the use of vulgar language at drinking spots.

He further lamented that liquor trading hours were no longer respected in his village, particularly the brewing and selling of traditional beer and these are the places where they receive most cases from.

Kgosi Rancholo also informed the residents that Customary Court Act has been amended and those who not respect the rule of law will face the music as they will be charged accordingly. 



Responding to the concerns, the Assistant Council Secretary (ACS) for Tutume sub-district, Ms Kene Mololwane said they are aware of the situation at the schools in Nata. She explained that they are currently doing maintenance at Nata primary school where the situation was so bad compared to other schools.

Ms Mololwane said other schools will be considered in the next financial year if funds can be available. She stressed that although they can make assessment of all facilities, which needs maintenance, they end up failing to cover them because of shortage of funds.

For his part, Mr Majaga said as from next financial year, most of the projects which were deferred will be done. He noted that projects such as the refurbishment of Sebina Junction/ Nata road will be covered.

He implored them to also help government develop their area as through the citizen empowerment policy, government wants to give Batswana an opportunity to invest in their country. ENDS