Draft Phikwe development plan targets economic vibrancy
Friday, May 31, 2013
In a series of meetings the consultants addressed in Selebi-Phikwe this week, Stranger Monareng, a representative of Mosienyane and Partners International, advised that urban design concepts and principles have to be applied.He also said the delineation of the town's growth boundary is important.The draft development plan further proposes that the mall area be revamped, adding that a plan for the Southern Future Expansion Zone should be implemented.
He also called for the implementation of projects in the tourism development zone as well as the establishment of an enterprise free zone. Monareng said a plot that was earmarked for the college of applied arts and science should be reserved for private institutions that would want to set up in Selebi-Phikwe."Allocation of land for the development of a private hospital as well as upgrading and expansion of Selebi-Phikwe Airport has the potential to attract investors and enhance the transport systems in the town," he added.The consultant also recommended the implementation of Phase 3, Block 3 and Block 2 detailed layout plans as well as improvements of all gateways into Selebi-Phikwe.
The Francistown Umbrella Informal Sector chairperson, David Mbulawa, has highlighted this growing concern, revealing that many local traders are using their licences to facilitate the entry of foreign goods into the market at a fee.Fronting undermines the very fabric of our local economy. It allows foreign traders to exploit the system designed to benefit Batswana, using local licences to cross borders and sell goods at prices intended for local...