Cllrs request economic stimulus for F/town
Chakalisa Dube | Tuesday September 5, 2017 15:09
After painting a gloomy picture of the city’s current economy at the Francistown City Council, especially when referring to vacant business and residential properties, Kwambala called on the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry to consider giving a special economic aid package to Francistown along the lines with the one given to Selebi-Phikwe.
The motion enjoyed overwhelming support as the council adopted it immediately.
“The economy of Francistown is on the brink of collapse. What is worrying me is that the government seems to be giving special aid to Selebi-Phikwe leaving Francistown behind,” he told the councillors.
He warned that lack of economic activity will worsen unemployment and crime in the city. Nominated councillor, Zazambi Tuelo shared Kwambala’s views, adding that it is becoming increasingly evident that the closure of the Tati Nickel Mining Company (TNMC) has negatively affected the once-flourishing Francistown economy.
“Since the closure of TNMC, I have not heard of any tangible projects directed towards helping revive the economy of Francistown. I often hear of projects geared towards helping revive the economy of Phikwe. It is high time the government turns its attention to Francistown,” he said.
Many businesses have closed shop while some continue to shed their staff in a bid to cope with the less business activity in the city. The Tati real estate sector has also taken a heavy knock as evidenced by the high rate of vacant offices and residential properties.
In total, over 500 employees at TNMC lost their jobs as a result of the liquidation of the BCL group. Companies subcontracted to the TNMC mine also closed and in the process shedding of hundreds of jobs.
Since the closure of the BCL Mine in Selebi-Phikwe last October the government has been lobbying investors to set up in the town. Over 4,000 workers lost their jobs when the BCL mine was liquidated.
Just last week an American-Hungarian company, Brite Star announced plans to set up in the town. The company specialises in aviation, tourism and hospitality, amongst others.
The company, which is expected to set up soon, will create over 3,000 jobs for residents of Selebi-Phikwe within the next five years.
Companies that set up in Selebi-Phikwe are guaranteed relaxed operating conditions and enjoy special support from government.