The Honourable Ketlhalefile Motshegwa, Minister of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, recently addressed the media to outline the ministry’s vision and strategies aimed at enhancing local governance in Botswana. Emphasizing the importance of sustainable livelihoods and effective local governance, the Minister highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to delivering socio-economic development services, municipal infrastructure, and environmentally sustainable initiatives to improve the lives of all Batswana.
“Our vision is about sustainable livelihoods and effective local governance,” stated the Minister. “This will be realized through the delivery of socio-economic development services and municipal infrastructure, underpinned by environmentally sustainable development and improved lives for all.”
A Call to Action: Back to Basics
Minister Motshegwa stressed the Ministry’s statutory mandate and the need to return to the basics of governance to ensure these goals are met. He outlined the Ministry’s commitment to creating an agile local government system that prioritizes:
- Future-Proof Policies: Policies will be designed with foresight to account for uncertainties, ensuring they remain relevant and effective.
- Trust-Based Processes: Recognizing that local governments serve captive audiences, trust-building will be central to governance processes.
- Problem-Solving Capacity: The Ministry aims to address complex and “wicked” problems — issues that are difficult to define and solve, requiring innovative and collaborative approaches.
Alignment with Vision 2036
The Minister also outlined the Ministry’s current Strategy and Transformation Plan, which aligns local government operations with the national Vision 2036 agenda. This vision emphasizes achieving a high-income status for Botswana by promoting inclusive and sustainable development.
The transformation plan seeks to enhance local government efficiency, responsiveness, and resilience while focusing on delivering public value. The Minister underscored the importance of integrating sustainable development goals and national commitments into local governance frameworks.
Commitment to Public Value
Honourable Motshegwa reiterated the Ministry’s pledge to serve Batswana with integrity and dedication, ensuring that local governance delivers tangible benefits to communities. “We have a duty to deliver on the statutory mandate clearly crafted for us,” he said.
By focusing on innovative policies, fostering trust, and addressing complex local challenges, the Ministry of Local Government and Traditional Affairs aims to lead Botswana towards a future defined by sustainable development and improved livelihoods for all.
This address reflects a clear roadmap for transforming local governance, aligning it with the needs and aspirations of Batswana while keeping pace with global and national developmental goals.
