23 Sep 2024

In a spirited contest for the Kgalagadi South parliamentary seat, Three political parties, the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), and Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF), squared off in a live debate on Radio Botswana. 

As the country prepares for the upcoming polls, candidates laid out their visions to win the hearts of voters.

The BDP’s candidate, Ms Diana Kaartze from Werda, touted the ruling party’s track record of managing national resources effectively since coming into power. 

“We have proven policies that enhance the livelihoods of our citizens, and continuing to support the BDP is essential for further development in our community,” she urged voters. Ms Kaartze highlighted ongoing government initiatives, including the construction of a new hospital aimed at expanding healthcare access in the constituency. 

“Soil testing has already been completed, and construction is already underway,” she said, also mentioning refurbishment plans for the Tsabong Primary Hospital.

In contrast, BPF prospective candidate Mr  Phenyo Sedimonyane emphasised the urgent need for economic revitalisation, noting a decline under the BDP’s governance. 

“Our first step will be a comprehensive financial review followed by initiatives to attract foreign direct investment,” he stated. 

Mr Sedimonyane expressed concerns about health services in the district, highlighting ongoing shortages of medical supplies and personnel. 

He also addressed the potential pitfalls of the newly constructed Tsabong Multispecies Abattoir, cautioning that local farmers might not benefit due to inadequate preparation and registration issues.

Mr Sedimonyane implored voters to consider the unique challenges faced by Kgalagadi’s agriculture sector. 

He criticised blanket agricultural programmes that do not tailor solutions to the area’s specific needs, advocating for the ability to import raw vegetables to stimulate job creation and local processing initiatives.

For his part, UDC representative Dr Micus Chimbombi called for transformative change to address the high levels of poverty in Kgalagadi South. 

“We must tackle the challenges of destitution, which affects 140 households in our community. My mission is to empower our people to rise above the poverty datum line,” he asserted. 

He also proposed innovative solutions for unemployment and infrastructural development, pointing out the need for better road networks to facilitate economic activities. While highlighting educational shortcomings, Dr Chimbombi stressed that he would prioritise enhancing academic performance if elected. 

He said, “Kgalagadi’s education results are unsatisfactory, and we need leadership that can transform our systems.” ENDs