Local power, National Transformation begins in councils
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Wednesday September 24, 2025 06:06
Speaking at the ministry’s high-level symposium held in Gaborone on Monday under the theme 'Reengineering the Role of Local Government in Democracy and the Developmental Agenda', Motshegwa said the era of business-as-usual in local governance is over. What the country now demands, he said, is a radical shift, not in policy theory alone, but in practical, structural, and people-centred transformation. “We are gathered here not for formality, but for focus. This is a platform for reflection and reimagination of how local government must function. Because of their closeness to the people, local authorities hold the key to inclusive development. It is at that level where democracy must be most alive and where delivery must be most visible,” said Motshegwa. He added that the local government must no longer be viewed as an administrative outpost of the central government, but as a critical engine for transformation, empowered with resources, capacity, and strategic direction. “The work before us is clear,” he said.
“And it will require ethical, transformational, and aspirational leadership, the kind that moves beyond rhetoric to results.” Referencing the broader national priorities as outlined by the presidency under the Botswana Economic Transformational Agenda, Motshegwa said the ministry is aligning itself to deliver on that mandate by turning councils into high-performing entities capable of delivering timely and effective services. Amongst the major undertakings announced was the ministry’s rural industrialisation drive, a deliberate strategy to decentralise development and restore economic dignity to villages. “We want life to make sense at the village level,” he said. “Rural industrialisation is not just about economic outputs. It is about inclusion, equity, and ensuring that no region is left behind.” The minister revealed that the ministry has partnered with the Botswana Stock Exchange to explore innovative revenue-generation models for councils, with an existing MOU already signed with the Gaborone City Council. The aim, he said, is to replicate this model across other local authorities to unlock new economic potential and reduce reliance on central transfers. “We are empowering councils to not only administer, but to lead,” he added.
The Minister also confirmed that the government is in the process of transforming the Ipelegeng programme into a full-fledged Public Works Programme, one that prioritises development, skills, and sustainability. Additionally, he said Village Development Committee (VDC) guidelines have been revised to sharpen their governance and developmental roles. “Our policies must not be distant documents,” Motshegwa said. “They must be rooted in the lived realities of our people, shaped by their voices, responsive to their needs, and aligned with their aspirations.”