PRESS STATEMENT: The COVID-19 Pandemic: The Relenting Effects On The Socio- Economic Lives Of BOPEU Members And The Nation
Monday, August 02, 2021
Masego Mogwera PIC: PHATSIMO KAPENG
It is with a heavy heart that we continue to witness the scourge that is on the loose and rampage, taking the posture of a veld fire and consuming a nation, living a lot to be desired.
We reminisce on the collectivism of our nation, individuals (citizens and non-citizens), local business organisations, Non-Governmental Organisations, the Trade Union movements and Messiers amongst others, whom during the plea by the Botswana Government to make gestures and contributions to the COVID-19 National Relief Fund that aimed at raising funds and resources to combat the scourge did so out of kindness, love and patriotism. We take plight in this unity, ‘Botho’ and collectivism that characterise us as a nation to share responsibility and battle along each other against an invisible enemy with so much courage.
Whilst celebrating milestones in inclusivity, with notably P5 billion awarded to vulnerable groups, the report sounds a 'siren' on a dangerous and growing trend: the ballooning use of micro-procurement. That this method, designed for small-scale, efficient purchases, now accounts for a staggering 25% (P8 billion) of total procurement value is not a sign of agility, but a 'red flag'. The PPRA’s warning is unequivocal and must be...