Khama �Cancels� Ghetto sobriquet
Lesedi Mkhutshwa | Monday October 30, 2017 15:06
When giving the keynote address Khama said Francistown has massively developed over the years and therefore it is not justifiable to continue using the nickname, Ghetto.
He said the name Ghetto is associated with shanty towns.
“I am banning the use of the Ghetto name. Francistown is a city. It is no longer a shanty town. It has undergone a lot of transformation over the years, “he said.
Khama urged Francistowners to find a fitting nickname that will tally with the city’s achievements and significant infrastructure development the second city has experienced over the years.
He averred that he wants a name that will sound attractive to tourists and potential investors. Khama further noted that despite the city’s telling achievements in terms of economic development over the years, there is need to do more.
“Going forward, there is need for Francistown authorities, residents of city and the nation at large to come up with strategies and a roadmap aimed at boosting the economic growth of the city,” he said.
Khama added that Francistown has the potential to be a major tourist hub at a regional and international level given its rich history and heritage. Khama said turning Francistown into a tourist hub can be achieved through strategic partnerships with those who have expertise both locally and internationally.
The President said authorities in Francistown should use arrangements such as twinning agreements with other municipalities around the world to derive and copy best practices that can help improve the economy of the city.
Khama said modern infrastructure such as the Tonota-Francistown dual carriage road and the interchange gives the city a comparative advantage when it comes to attracting investors.
Khama said they lately witnessed the expanded road network, including the Thapama interchange and other investment opportunities, which have the potential to expand breakthroughs.
Khama also outlined the important role Francistown played during the liberation struggle of some countries in Africa in the 60s and 70s. During those years, Francistown housed freedom fighters and refugees fleeing racial, colonial oppression in their countries.