Africa-Press – Botswana. Member of Parliament for Tati East, Dr Douglas Letsholathebe has commended the youth in Matopi settlement for attending kgotla meetings in large numbers.
Addressing a kgotla meeting at the settlement Tuesday, Dr Letsholathebe explained that kgotla meetings were a cornerstone of Botswana’s system of participatory democracy, where citizens could engage with their leaders and have a say in local development.
He said through kgotla meetings, people could discuss various issues and provide input on government policies.
“This way, the meetings ensure that development is tailored to the needs of the community.
Kgotla meetings also foster a sense of unity and pride among Batswana, and help to build social cohesion,” he added.
He said for young people attending these meetings, is a chance for them to learn about local governance and have their voices heard.
Dr Letsholathebe said it was also an opportunity for them to develop leadership skills and build relationships with community members and decision-makers.
“Ultimately, by attending kgotla meetings, young people can help shape the future of their country,” he said.
However, the MP, who is also Minister of Basic Education and Skills Development, raised a concern that youth unemployment in Botswana was of great concern to the government.
He noted that young people were facing many challenges, including a lack of job opportunities and encouraged them to take advantage of government programmes such as Temo Letlotlo.
He said the programme provides access to loans, training, and mentorship to help young people start their own businesses.
“It is a promising initiative that could make a real difference in the lives of young people and help to address the problem of youth unemployment,” he added.
A youth representative, Ms Kgomotso Mabobo, appealed for improved access to technology in remote places such as Matopi.
She said technology knowledge was common among young people in Botswana, who recognised the importance of being computer literate in today’s world.
She explained that the SmartBots initiative, which aims to provide free WiFi and computers in settlements, could be a game-changer for Matopi settlement.
In response to Ms Mabobo’s appeal, North East assistant district officer, Mr Thusang Nyoni said the installation of a SmartBots connectivity in Matopi would be considered in the following phase(s).
Meanwhile, North East District agricultural coordinator, Mr Gwilidzani Maposa told the residents that donkeys and cattle could be used as draught power in the new Temo Letlotlo programme.
However, he explained that for one to use the animals, they must have been registered with the Ministry of Agriculture and should be having all the ploughing implements.
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