MP wants independence celebration funds diverted

Goitsemodimo Kaelo | Wednesday February 10, 2016 17:02

 

Kgoroba says he will ask government to divert money budgeted for independence celebrations in his area for the next four years, in order to push the construction of the Mogoditshane Block 5/Mogoditshane Block 9 road.

The road currently used by Mogoditshane Route 2, 4 and 6 taxis is not tarred and poses a health hazard to residents due to dust caused by moving vehicles. Many homesteads in the area are also yet to be connected to the sewage system.

In an interview with Mmegi, Kgoroba said the two infrastructure developments are critical to his constituents. He said that he had tried to talk to authorities to prioritise the developments, but had been told that they are not included in the fiscal budget.

“My area is one of the most under-developed despite it being closest to Gaborone,” he said.

“I do not see value in spending money on independence celebrations while there are long time investments that could be done.

“Since tarring the road may be expensive, they could resort to paving which is cheaper and convenient.” Kgoroba said the number of motorists using the road has grown as the population of Mogoditshane has also increased.

“This why I feel we would rather spend money on these important developments than on a one-day celebration because really there is nothing to celebrate. It would be a milestone if we achieve this,” he said.

Kgoroba said while he was yet to find out how much money was spent annually to celebrate independence in the area, even if it was low, the funds could still be meaningfully used.

“Using Ipelegeng workers could also cut labour costs when paving the four-kilometre road. Government should be prudent when spending and prioritise projects that could impact positively on the socio-economic status of citizens.”