Africa-Press – Botswana. Local authorities have been instructed to find alternative modes of transport following government’s resolve that donkey carts are unsuitable for ferrying learners.
The decision stemmed from concerns that donkey carts exposed learners to safety risks, including road accidents and harsh weather conditions.
Minister of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Mr Ketlhalefile Motshegwa, said this answering a question from Member of Parliament for Mmopane-Metsimotlhabe, Ms Helen Manyeneng in Parliament on Tuesday.
Minister Motshegwa stated that the use of donkeys for learner transportation was being abolished and therefore councils were now required to implement alternative arrangements that met acceptable safety standards, specifically citing the need for roadworthy and properly covered vehicles.
Ms Manyeneng had asked the minister if he was aware that learners from Dintoroko, Gamononyane and Mmamhiko were being transported to Metsimotlhabe via donkey carts.
She highlighted the serious safety risks involved and wanted to know whether the ministry would commit to providing safer and sheltered vehicles to ensure the protection and well-being of the children.
