Cry for help: Kgosi Gabanamotse's plea for Hatsalatladi
Tuesday, January 14, 2025 | 740 Views |

Kgosi Sakie Gabanamotse showing Mmegi team craked land. PIC MORERI SEJAKGOMO
Speaking recently on the challenges faced by the community, he revealed that Ipelegeng, a government short-term employment programme, remains the sole source of employment for residents. With no government entities in the area to provide sustainable job opportunities, villagers are forced to seek work in larger towns such as Molepolole or the capital city Gaborone. Hatsalatladi village currently has a kgotla (traditional court), a primary school, and a clinic, which can be deemed as developments.
However, these facilities fall short of addressing the unemployment crisis. Hence, the village leader has bemoaned the rising incidents of theft and assault, particularly at night and around bars, which he attributes to widespread joblessness. "We often record cases of stolen phones and assaults happening during the night. It's heartbreaking to see our youth, both graduates and non-graduates, aimlessly wandering with nothing to do," Kgosi Gabanamotse told The Monitor. "Our village is small, and it is troubling to witness such a rise in crime," he added.
Gabanamotse also highlighted another worrying trend of youth turning to alcohol to cope with frustration. He expressed dismay at the irresponsible drinking habits that have become prevalent in the community, further fuelling conflicts and common assault cases. Adding to the village's challenges is the lack of resources for law enforcement. As a result, he pointed out that the local police force is severely understaffed, with only three officers available to cover the whole of Hatsalatladi and surrounding areas. To make matters worse, these officers lack a dedicated vehicle, forcing them to rely on assistance from the Molepolole precinct. "If a serious case arises, officers must request a vehicle from Molepolole. If Molepolole is unable to assist immediately, our officers are left waiting, and in the meantime, evidence could be tampered with," Gabanamotse explained. Despite these obstacles, he remains hopeful. Gabanamotse urged authorities to equip the Molepolole police with more resources, including vehicles and additional staff, to better serve the region.
He firmly believes that addressing these issues will help curb crime and bring much-needed stability to Hatsalatladi. However, Kgosi Gabanamotse’s heartfelt plea is a reflection of the pressing need for government intervention to uplift the village and create opportunities for its people before they sink any deeper into despair.
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