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We achieved 100,000 plots without resources – Mzwinila

Mzwinila handingover the 99 900th plot in Makakatlela ward in Mochudi
Mzwinila handingover the 99 900th plot in Makakatlela ward in Mochudi

As government achieves its goal of 100,000 plot allocations in Kanye tomorrow, Minister of Lands and Water Affairs Kefentse Mzwinila has said they managed without increasing resources and staff.

When handing over the 99,900th plot in Mochudi in Friday, he said when they set a target of 100,000 plot allocations in 2022 they decided to fast-track and develop every stage from environmental assessment to conveying.

“What we did as a department was rebuilding and transformation. We knew that there were challenges and we had to come up with solutions,” the minister said. Mzwinila noted they had to fix delays in every stage of land allocation, adding that staff in his ministry volunteered by working during weekends and after hours. He said people often ask him how he increased allocations from 8,630 annually to 50,000. “It’s all thanks to our team’s dedication, hard work, mindset change, and commitment,” he highlighted. He also indicated that some of the challenges they faced as allocations increased is the rising number of transfers from people who sold their land.

He said this increased their work because the same people who allocate land are the same people who are supposed to help with transfers. The minister also emphasised that a plot is the first development before water, electricity, and roads, therefore, people shouldn't rush to sell their plots. However, Dimpho Sebolawe who was allocated the 99,900th plot in Mochudi on Friday, promised not to sell hers. Sebolawe indicated that she had always wanted a place of her own and now that she has a plot, she will develop it. The new land owner, 34, said she applied for the plot in 2014 and never thought in her wildest dreams that 10 years down the line she would be allocated. “I thank God and the government. I am going to build a home for my children here,” she said.

Tomorrow in Kanye, President Mokgweetsi Masisi will hand over the 100,000th plot as the ministry achieves its target in two years.

Editor's Comment
Watch your tongue Mr President

While his leadership has brought about significant progress and development, it is imperative that he exercises greater caution in his choice of words, particularly when addressing sensitive matters.One of the primary concerns is the potential impact of his remarks on Botswana’s relationship with De Beers, the diamond mining giant that plays a crucial role in the nation’s economy.The partnership between Botswana and De Beers has been mutually...

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