12 Sep 2024

In a move to enhance potable water accessibility and create job opportunities, President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi officially launched the installation of smart prepaid water meters at the Olebile family residence in Block 8, Gaborone, yesterday.

The initiative, part of a broader water demand strategy, aims not just at addressing the immediate need for drinking water but also at fostering an environment ripe for business growth.

Speaking at the launch, President Masisi emphasised that the project was a vital step toward improving the livelihoods of citizens. “This initiative is not only about quenching thirst; it aims to unlock opportunities for business communities hindered by water shortages,” he said.

The President highlighted the importance of monitoring and assessing the economic impact of such projects. “Water is a valuable resource, its true worth is determined by the opportunities it creates,” Dr Masisi said.

The primary goal of the smart prepaid water meters, as articulated by President Masisi, was to generate jobs and enhance living standards across the nation. He instructed the Water Utilities Corporation (WUC) to conduct thorough evaluation following the installation of these meters. “WUC must engage in benchmarking exercises with other countries to establish best practices in water resource management, supply, distribution and quality,” he added.

While government strived to provide potable water that met international standards, President Masisi stressed the need for consumers to conserve water and use it wisely. He called for collaborative efforts among various ministries, including trade and industry, agriculture, and health, to promote optimal water usage.

“By understanding the benefits of water in construction, food production and health, Batswana  can leverage the resource to enhance their lives,” he stated.

Dr Masisi reinforced government’s commitment to improving citizens’ livelihoods through the rollout of the smart prepaid water meters, designed to help consumers manage their water bills effectively. “This project is a testament to our dedication to addressing the challenges faced by our people, including water scarcity,” he commented.

The launching of the smart prepaid water metering solution comes alongside the completion of the North-South Carrier 2 (NSC2) and Masama water projects, fulfilling promises set by government in 2019. The President indicated that such initiatives were essential for establishing a knowledge-based economy and expressed his gratitude to local companies involved in delivering the project.

“Let us applaud WUC for executing this assignment satisfactorily. I am pleased that this project has been carried out by local enterprises,” he said.

In aligning efforts to enhance food production and related business activities, the government has directed WUC to connect water supplies to projects that require significant water usage, such as agro-tourism and food processing. “Our plan is to empower Batswana to use available resources to improve their livelihoods and contribute to economic growth,” Dr Masisi said.

The first phase of the Smart Prepaid Water Metering Solution (SPWMS), covering Gaborone and surrounding areas, commenced in July 2024 and is expected to conclude by January 2025, with an estimated budget of P500 million. According to WUC Chief Executive Officer Mr Gaselemogwe Senai, this phase would see the installation of 65 000 smart prepaid water meters, with the long-term goal of equipping the entire country with a total of 555 000 meters within three years.

As the government takes strides to ensure sustainable water management, the introduction of smart prepaid meters is seen as a crucial step towards fostering economic empowerment and improving the quality of life for all citizens. ENDS