16 Dec 2024

The inaugural meeting of the Rural Development Council (RDC), chaired by Vice President Ndaba Gaolathe, has highlighted a commitment to improving livelihoods in rural areas of Botswana.

Addressing the meeting in Gaborone yesterday, Mr Gaolathe called for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to revitalise regions, emphasising targeted interventions addressing critical issues such as poverty, inequality, unemployment, and the recurring challenge of drought.

He said RDC served as the highest consultative body aimed at promoting and coordinating rural development across various government sectors and stakeholders.

One of the primary focuses of the council was to oversee measures mitigating effects of drought, which has been a persistent issue impacting agricultural productivity and food security, he said.

Mr Gaolathe emphasised the need for a strategic framework that identified clear goals and measures for success.

He encouraged members to align their efforts with the government’s broader vision while identifying key institutions that play a role in rural development, such as the Botswana Meat Commission.

He stressed the importance of a systematic approach to connect immediate concerns, like drought relief, with long-term development objectives.

He acknowledged the vital role of trusts in community development, especially in tourism-rich areas, and called for strategies to empower communities to engage meaningfully in socio-economic activities.

Mr Gaolathe highlighted the necessity of incorporating rural communities into project planning and execution to ensure their needs were met.

Further, he expressed confidence in capabilities present within the committee, urging members to maintain a focus on the transformative potential of their work.

Mr Gaolathe affirmed a collaborative spirit, anticipating a journey of challenges and triumphs aimed at creating a more prosperous and equitable Botswana for all.

The meeting set the stage for discussions on developing comprehensive strategies addressing multifaceted challenges faced by rural communities. ENDS