Ministry repossesses undeveloped land

MQONDISI DUBE
Correspondent | Wednesday July 9, 2008 00:00

 

He told a full council meeting in Selebi-Phikwe on Monday that the move is meant to curb speculation on land prices. He said his ministry has already started repossessing undeveloped land in Gaborone. 'We want to avoid speculation (on land prices). We will repossess undeveloped plots and we have started doing that in Gaborone,' said Molefhi.

He added that most people bought land with a view of re-selling at a profit. Molefhi said such plots remain undeveloped and that his ministry will not hesitate to repossess them one year after relocation.

Local authorities have come under fire for failing to repossess plots, which remain idle long after allocation while the housing waiting list keeps growing.

Molefhi said the Housing Act is on the way to make sure that all issues that pertain to housing fall under one authority. At the moment, there is a Housing Policy, but no Act.

Molefhi said the policy is being revised. Nominated councillor, Rosemary Mukwewa, expressed concern at the rising cost of electricity saying the poor, particularly in Botshabelo did not afford the steep prices. She urged the government to look at other sources of energy like solar.

Molefhi said to address the issue, the Botswana Power Corporation (BPC) has been requested to review its installation charges.