The Minister in the Office of the President, Mr. Moeti Mohwasa, recently embarked on a critical visit to Motshegaletau village to evaluate the alarming land cracking incidents that have posed risks to the community. The visit underscores the government’s commitment to addressing natural disasters and ensuring public safety.
Botswana’s Vulnerability to Natural Disasters
During his visit, Minister Mohwasa highlighted that Botswana is increasingly vulnerable to natural disasters such as floods, droughts, earthquakes, and, more recently, land cracking. He pointed out that while some of these disasters manifest suddenly, others, like land cracking, may take years to develop, making it difficult for communities to anticipate their impact.
“Natural disasters, particularly those that develop over a long period, can cause communities to forget the inherent risks of certain areas. This often leads to pressure on the government to allocate land in areas that are susceptible to such disasters,” the Minister said.
The Need for Long-Term Safety Measures
Minister Mohwasa emphasized the importance of adopting long-term strategies to mitigate the risks posed by natural disasters. He stated that the government would initiate a nationwide assessment to identify safe areas for settlement. This assessment aims to ensure that communities are not placed in harm’s way due to poor land allocation decisions.
The Minister also appealed to the public to understand the dangers of pressuring authorities to allocate plots in unsafe locations. “It is crucial to prioritize safety over convenience. The government is committed to ensuring that every citizen is settled in an area free from potential hazards,” he added.
Collaboration with Experts and Local Leadership
Accompanying the Minister were the Assistant Minister of Lands and Agriculture, the Member of Parliament for the area, and a team of experts from the Botswana Geoscience Institute. The experts are conducting thorough land assessments to determine the extent of the land cracking and identify solutions.
The involvement of geoscientists highlights the government’s reliance on data-driven approaches to understand the root causes of such incidents and devise appropriate mitigation measures.
Community Concerns and Government Reassurance
The visit provided an opportunity for the Motshegaletau community to raise their concerns directly with the Minister. Residents expressed anxiety over the safety of their homes and livelihoods, with some requesting immediate relocation to safer areas.
In response, Minister Mohwasa reassured the community that their safety remains a top priority. He urged them to exercise patience while experts finalize their assessments and the government formulates a comprehensive action plan.
Looking Ahead
The government’s response to the land cracking in Motshegaletau reflects its broader commitment to disaster preparedness and community safety. Minister Mohwasa’s visit also sets the tone for increased collaboration between local authorities, national leaders, and scientific experts in tackling natural disasters.
As Botswana continues to experience the effects of climate change and other environmental challenges, such proactive measures are vital to safeguarding communities and promoting sustainable development.
