12 Aug 2024

Stakeholders in the North West District have been urged to collaborate and devise effective strategies to address the persistent issue of poverty in the region.

Kgosi Tawana Moremi expressed concerns over the widespread poverty affecting both urban and rural communities, saying that many households continued to struggle with poverty and inequality despite the government’s existing upliftment programmes.

Speaking at an event to recognise the efforts of Village Development Committees (VDCs) in their respective areas, Kgosi Tawana proposed a meeting to gather district leadership and other stakeholders aimed at examining the root causes of poverty and strategising on how to better support the community.

He shared his experiences as a former Member of Parliament, recounting the dire conditions and hunger faced by families in Maun and its surroundings.

“In many instances, it is painful to see children left on their own while some headed households venture out to find sustenance,” he said.

While acknowledging the crucial role of VDCs in enhancing local governance and spearheading developmental initiatives, Kgosi Tawana emphasised the importance of these committees collaborating with traditional leaders and key stakeholders to improve community welfare.

“Together, we can make a difference and restore hope and dignity to many families,” he stated.

Echoing these sentiments, Kgosing area councilor Mr Tswelelo Sebati noted the pressing issue of poverty within the district. He supported Kgosi Tawana’s suggestion of convening a meeting to explore collective efforts to alleviate poverty.

“The council registers more destitute persons on a monthly basis, and we believe that together we can facilitate initiatives that help many become self-reliant,” he said.

Mr Sebati also expressed concern regarding child abuse and mistreatment, describing the statistics as alarming.

He called for urgent action from all sectors of society to protect vulnerable children.

“Recent reports from newly established centers for sexual crimes against minors are disheartening, especially since many cases are perpetrated by those the children should trust, such as family members,” he remarked. He added that some cases go unreported, with victims often silenced by fear and stigma.

“Children’s protection requires all of us to stand united and intensify our efforts to shield them from all forms of violence,” he stressed, underscoring the community’s responsibility in safeguarding its children.

The Deputy Council Secretary, Operations, Ms Kebalepile Horatius, concurred that issues of child negligence and poverty in the district need to be taken serious.

The issues, she said, were a major concern and emphasised that as the district leadership and other stakeholders, they should join hands and come up with interventions to create a safe, supportive environment that fosters positive change for a better future for the children and the community at large. ENDS