17 Feb 2025

Residents of Takatokwane Constituency have been encouraged to give the Umbrella for Democratic Change led government time to deliver on the promises made during 2024 general elections campaign.

Speaking at a kgotla meeting in Motokwe recently, area MP Mr Jacob Kelebeng who also serves as Minister of Sport and Arts, encouraged the constituents to be patient, assuring them that the UDC was dedicated to delivering on its commitments to Batswana.

Mr Kelebeng informed them about the proposed initiatives outlined in the national budget speech, highlighting that the Bonno Housing Scheme, which was an evolution of SHHA, was expected to create numerous job opportunities for Batswana as well as 100 000 housing units over the course of five years.

He mentioned plans to empower Ipelegeng workers and brigade graduates, by involving them in the project.

“We plan to train and develop Ipelegeng workers so that they can benefit from this initiative,” said Mr Kelebeng adding that the scheme would be accessed by most government public employees and would provide decent housing for many.

He stated that government would establish a strong technical and vocational education and training system, and close the gap between student allowances at TVET institutions and those at other higher learning institutions.

Mr Kelebeng also updated the public on the proposed increase of old age pension from P830 to P1 400 and the proposed monthly allowance of P300 for new born babies until they turn one year-old.

Mr Kelebeng said the government intended to establish a National Fund of Funds, to help promote the informal sector and said that the creative industry would be cared for under this fund.

Regarding national health insurance, he stated that the plan was very much alive and would assist Batswana to have access to better health care. ENDS