Reality of accommodation shortage in Jwaneng

Many contractors flock to Jwaneng under Debswana sub-contracts and eventually secure accommodation for their employees at higher prices, leaving ordinary residents in the lurch. Jwaneng Mine is the largest employer in the town.

The Monitor visited one yard in Unit 6 where a three-bedroomed house has accommodated eight families which included minor children. The sitting room is divided into two with a board to accommodate two families, while patio was also secured as a room with a board covering both sides. A small kitchen which opens at the back was also turned into a room for another tenant. The movement in the house is unbearable and never mind the privacy. Shima Moabi, who occupied the patio revealed that accommodation in Jwaneng is a problem and he opted to live uncomfortably than to pay P3,500 for a servant’s quarters. He said he was paying P500 excluding water bills and living with such a large number of people is a challenge.