The ongoing saga surrounding the long-promised internal roads for Mogoditshane is frankly a disgrace.
Residents have been patiently waiting since 2021, and what do they get? A tangled mess of bureaucratic delays, tender disputes, and frankly, a lack of clear answers from those in charge.
The recent proceedings at the Public Procurement Tribunal have exposed a worrying level of incompetence and confusion within the Mogoditshane-Thamaga Council. This has also been noticed at various cases becoming before the Tribunal where it appears that if those entrusted to procure goods and services did it by the book, the country could have advanced way more.
The spectacle of council officials struggling to explain basic tender procedures, contradicting themselves, and seemingly unaware of their own documentation is simply unacceptable. It begs the question of how can we trust them to deliver on such a crucial project?
This is not just about a few potholes. It is about the very fabric of Mogoditshane. A home to multitudes and also a gateway for multitudes driving into and out of the city of Gaborone carrying the country’s economy. By dividing it into two constituencies, it was realisation that Mogoditshane is an important part of greater Gaborone.
These roads are vital for residents to access essential services, for businesses to thrive, and for the overall development of the area. The current state of affairs is hindering progress and causing unnecessary hardship.
The tender disputes, while frustrating, highlight a need for greater transparency and accountability in the procurement process. The public deserves to know that their money is being spent wisely and that contracts are awarded fairly. The irregularities uncovered by the Tribunal suggest that this is not currently the case.
While the legalities play out, it is crucial that the authorities take decisive action. The people of Mogoditshane cannot afford to wait any longer. The council must address the issues raised by the Tribunal with urgency and ensure that the tendering process is conducted with the utmost integrity.
Furthermore, the government needs to step in and provide oversight. The Economic Recovery Transformation Programme (ERTP) was meant to deliver tangible benefits to communities like Mogoditshane. Instead, it has become mired in red tape and delays.
It is time for less talk and more action. The residents of Mogoditshane deserve proper roads, and they deserve them now. The authorities must put an end to the delays and ensure that this vital project is finally delivered. The people of Mogoditshane have waited long enough. It is time to build those roads.
“Without a sense of urgency,desire loses its value.”
-Jim Rohn“Without a sense of urgency,desire loses its value.”-Jim Rohn