SSKIA upgrading loan gets House nod

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Parliament on Tuesday approved the loan P124 million entered into between the Botswana government and the OPEC Fund for International Development for the upgrading and expansion of Sir Seretse Khama International Airport.

Government intends to build a state-of-the-arts terminal building to the tune of P400 million that will accommodate approximately 450 people. The runway will also be extended from 3000m - 4000m to cater for large aircraft.

However, mystery still remains as to which section of the Finance and Audit Act empowers the finance minister to enter into such loan agreements with foreign financiers. Assistant Minister Guma Moyo acknowledged that there was need for clarity on the country's laws. He however maintained that it was the mandate of Parliament, as oversight institution, to debate matters pertaining to funding of government projects.  During the debate, Member of Parliament (MP) for Lobatse Nehemiah Modubule challenged the minister to specify which section of the Finance and Audit Act was supposed to guide the MPs in their deliberations. He wanted the debate to be halted, arguing that it would be improper to continue when it was not clear which law was guiding them.

Editor's Comment
Our food safety matters

We commend the GCC inspectors for their vigilance in uncovering serious hygiene violations at establishments like Pick 'n Pay (South Ring Mall), Bravo Restaurant (Main Mall), Chicken Twist (Bonnington), Spar (Main Mall Bakery and Butchery), Choppies Butchery, Pie Time, and Fours Bakery. Their decisive action which includes temporary closures, confiscation of unsafe food, and laying charges sends a powerful, necessary message: food safety is...

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