17 Sep 2024

Construction of the envisaged Matlapana satellite police will enhance police capacity to fight crime and ensure public safety, says Maun Station Commander, Superintendent Dennis Zilawe. 

The project is an initiative by Matlapana community and catchment areas  who adopted the concept self-reliance  as part of the efforts to bring services closer to people. The community has been accessing services from  the Maun Police Station following closure of Matlapana police post in 2019. 

Speaking during a fund raiser event for the project in Maun on Saturday, Superintendent Zilawe hailed the community for the initiative.  He said the facility would contribute significantly toward bringing policing services closer to the community and also strengthen efficiency in terms of response time and increased police visibility. 

“This project is a welcome development since Maun Police Station is policing a vast area,” he added. 

He said Maun deserved a second police station considering a high population as indicated in the Population Census report, noting that currently they policed from Makalamabedi up to Sexaxa including Komana as well as areas in the Okavango Delta. 

He urged the private sector and the community to come on board through pledges and contributions for the success of the project.  The project is estimated to cost around P18 million and the fund raising committee has opened a bank account for donations. 

“We want to see the project taking shape and I appeal to the local companies and business community to assist as the facility will also benefit them,” he added.

Meanwhile, the community has secured a plot for the project and a committee formed to spearhead the project. The council has assisted with the drawing of the plan.  North West District Commissioner, Mr Thabang Waloka commended Matlapana community for reviving the spirit of volunteerism and self reliance to complement government’s efforts by contributing towards community projects. 

He said self-reliance was one of the principles, which had shaped the country over the years in terms of driving sustainable developments and wished other villagers could embrace the spirit. Ends