GCC Starts Orphan And Destitute Empowerment Project

EPHRAIM KEORENG
Staff Writer | Monday February 1, 2010 00:00

Under the project, the beneficiaries will be taught business management skills. GCC chief community development officer official, Phemelo Thebe told Monitor that the project is meant to rehabilitate orphans and able-bodied destitute persons. The official said that the project is aimed at providing an exit mechanism for the beneficiaries who are dependent on government handouts. It is expected that they will be economically empowered and improve their life as a result of the project. Thebe said the project is part of the rehabilitation envisaged in the Revised Destitute Policy, which provides for the restoration of the socio-economic status of the client.

'The policy recognises the need to move away from depending on welfare support and empower people to exit destitution and become functionally and economically active members of the society. The bakery project is one of the identified projects that is aimed at addressing the issue,' said Thebe. The project will cost about P860,000. The cost includes basic bakery training and business start-up capital. The group, made up of 10 youth, will be trained in business management and book-keeping.

However, the council will not avail land or business space for the youth, but would refer them to relevant stakeholders. Thebe said that they want the youth to be independent and work hard to turn their businesses into success stories.

The council has trained 'and bought equipment for the 10 youth. Once the business is on its feet, the role of Gaborone City Council will be minimal and advise where there is need.

There is continuous counseling of these beneficiaries to help them understand the importance of the project,' said Thebe. The project is expected, in the near future, to create employment for other youth.