"When conducting various workshops, we divided the city into three categories such that we get different problems from various locations. On that practice, we invited parastatals, youth representatives and other associations. We, however, identified various problems together with initiated solutions that should be addressed in the next development plan," said Adams.
She asserted that the problems facing the city includes high crime rate, double shifts in schools and payment of school fees. She stated that children spend less time in schools and hence they engage in social ills.
"We realised the need to access health facilities at all times, all clinics should operate 24 hours. Upon conducting workshops, we understood that there is a high number of illegal immigrants. We then concluded that the Ministry of Labour and Home Affairs should come up with new strategies of dealing with illegal immigrants. The other issue encountered was the centralisation of services with regard to central medical stores, broadcasting services, registrar of companies and the Industrial Court. The proposed solutions were to decentralise services to reach communities," said Adams.
She added that the Francistown Key Issue paper was to be presented to the Minister of Local Government, Dr. Margaret Nasha to guide the forthcoming developments.
Meanwhile, the councillor for central ward, Rebbecca Nshakashokwe said there is a need for community radios after 40 years of independence. "We need the Industrial Court in Francistown. The issue of expatriates is worrisome. When their contracts expire, they should not be renewed so as to pave way for our qualified youth," said Nshakashokwe.
Government camp councillor, Golwelwang Mogomela lamented that children over 16 years are facing detention for not possessing identity cards because of delays at the Ministry of Labour and Home Affairs.
"That should be the issue between parents, police and immigration officers as these children in most instances are busy with their school work. Parents should therefore play a lead role in reminding children to obtain identity cards in time," said Mogomela.
Itekeng ward councillor, Sam Masunga said parents should help the youth to access land to be eligible for various youth programmes in the country.
The Francistown Key Issue paper was presented to the management committee then to full council for approval before being submitted to the Ministry of Local Government.
