12 Sep 2024

The commissioning of Mogoditshane-Gabane-Mmankgodi dual road will unlock job opportunities across various sectors from manufacturing and agriculture to construction and informal trade.

President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi said this at the project kick-off ceremony yesterday at Ditlhakane River, along the A10 Road.

He acknowledged the prolonged wait for the construction of the road, attributing the delays to changes in design, scope alterations, and insufficient funding.

“This project has been a point of contention on multiple occasions, evidenced by heated debates in Parliament and discussions in public consultation fora,” President Masisi stated.

He expressed pride in the recent implementation of the Development Manager model, which had brought about rapid commissioning of construction projects with a strong commitment to high-quality execution.

“Thanks to the new approach, we are now seeing multiple infrastructure projects being initiated in quick succession, with a high level of assurance in their implementation plan,” he said, highlighting that this project exemplified a modern, innovative strategy transforming the government’s approach to development.

The dual road, which serves as a vital link between Gaborone and the western corridor, has been operational for over three decades and has now exceeded its original design life.

It is the latest in a string of infrastructure development projects initiated under the Development Manager model and follows a series of activities, starting with a contract signing ceremony in October 2023.

President Masisi stated that the groundbreaking ceremony was a testament to government’s commitment to improving infrastructure in the country.

Zutari Botswana has been apointed as the Development Manager for the project. Zutari CEO, Mr Teddy Daka commended President Masisi for his leadership and vision which had not only given rise to the project but also paved the way for 13 similar initiatives nationwide.

He highlighted that while the project might appear to be a mere upgrade of 27 kilometers, it symbolised much more than that. “For us, this project is not just about improving the road. It’s about improving the safety and access of road users, fostering economic growth and ultimately contributing to a more connected, accessible and prosperous Botswana,” he stated.

Mr Daka reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting government’s citizen empowerment policies, stating that they would strive to exceed the 40 per cent set aside requirement for local businesses and workers.

Among the components, included in the project are; enlarged intersections to improve traffic flow and safety, a new bridge over Molepolole Junction, widening of Pula Spar intersection, four lanes extending up to the Mmankgodi Junction and a new bridge over Kolobeng River. ENDS