Africa-Press – Botswana. Following the Ministry of Transport and Public Works’ decision to adopt the Development Manager concept to improve project delivery, about 12 development managers gathered at Fairground Holdings on September 25 to sign contracts for various infrastructure services across the country.
Although the contract signing phase of the event was deferred to a date warranting the President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi’s audience, Minister Eric Molale, hailed the new procurement model as a breakthrough in government project management.
Mr Molale advocated a change in the government’s approach, urging officials to provide more opportunities for individuals and entities to contribute to the country’s development.
He encouraged an open-minded government that allowed diverse ideas to flourish and called for the support of young talent.
Mr Molale, through his extensive experience in government-managed projects, emphasised how the successful completion of projects within budget and on schedule was important.
He also expressed concerns about the value system in project management, emphasising the need to eradicate corrupt practices like soliciting, trading, hoarding, and fronting.
Regarding the new development projects, Mr Molale revealed ambitious plans.
Over 100 projects, ranging from 24-hour clinics to major roads construction, are in the initial phase, with an estimated budget of P1.3 billion.
These projects aim to create jobs, stimulate the economy, and improve infrastructure across Botswana.
Furthermore, Mr Molale emphasised that development managers hired for these projects aim to facilitate growth by managing, engineering, procurement, and construction.
“They do not intend to take work away from the local population but, rather, seek to create opportunities for employment,” he said. Mr Molale also discussed the need for more effective oversight in government projects, citing examples of past failures due to a lack of supervision such as the Dibete Police Station.
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