Botswana’s government is committed to promoting sustainable development throughout the country. Honourable Slumber Tsogwane, Botswana’s Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, discusses his ministry’s priorities and projects.
European Times: What are your ministry’s main goals?
Honourable Slumber Tsogwane: The mission of the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development is to ensure effective government services and social protection for all the people of Botswana. Our number one priority is to reduce unemployment and poverty. The ministry also contributes to the government’s drive to develop Botswana’s educational system, fight HIV and AIDs, combat corruption and allocate financial resources wisely. One major step Botswana has taken in fighting corruption is to eliminate the government’s involvement in the tender-selection process so that this process will always be completely transparent.
European Times: What benefits is your ministry bringing to local communities?
Honourable Slumber Tsogwane: The ministry is implementing measures to ensure that local businesses have top priority concerning tenders for local projects, as long as local suppliers can meet quality and quantity requirements. For example, school uniforms will be manufactured by a company in the district where the school is located if possible.
European Times: How does the ministry allocate its budget to Botswana’s 16 regions?
Honourable Slumber Tsogwane: The ministry is revising its system in order to allocate funds based on the importance and timeframe of each project, rather than on the size of the community where the project is located. Each local council must establish an annual budget, but these budgets can be revised if communities’ needs change, as long as projects benefit local populations.
European Times: How is your ministry helping Botswana attract FDI?
Honourable Slumber Tsogwane: Since this ministry is very active at the local level, it is the best source for information on available land for projects. Our staff members also have in-depth knowledge about local human resources and suppliers. The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development welcomes the chance to assist foreign investors and can even provide subsidies for projects that develop Botswana’s business sector and provide employment. In addition, each district in Botswana has the authority to partner with foreign and local investors. Local leaders know what is best for their communities and the ministry does not want to hold back any community’s chance to grow.
European Times: What is your personal message to European readers?
Honourable Slumber Tsogwane: The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development is committed to promoting the development of local communities throughout Botswana and welcomes international partnerships.
