09 Mar 2025

Funds for the construction of the Letlhakeng/Kaudwane 95-kilometre road to bitumen status have been secured.

The project is estimated to cost P900 million. Mr Noah Salakae, Minister of Roads and Infrastructure, confirmed this during a kgotla meeting recently alongside Minister of Sports and Arts, Mr Jacob Kelebeng.

Mr Salakae stated that the road was planned for implemention under the currently under review Development Manager (DM) Model.

He stated that the review was being conducted to ensure no traces of corruption in the awarding of government tenders.

After conclusion of the review, he said the contractor would be appointed and required to deliver the project within budget, scope, and the time frame specified.

Mr Salakae informed residents that government would ensure that community members living along the route were employed throughout the project’s development and paid a decent wage.

He mentioned that the road’s topographic survey had already been completed.

Minister Kelebeng, who is also a Member of Parliament for the Takatokwane constituency, stated that construction of the road would have an economic impact on the community.

He said the road would enhance access to Khutse Game Reserve, a gateway to Central Kalahari Game Reserve, and thus help improve tourism revenue.

On other issues, MP Kelebeng updated residents on the government’s priorities, saying government was committed to enhancing social welfare of the community and health care.

He stated that government administration believed in education for production, hence its committed to transform brigades’ education and introduce courses that were relevant to market demand.

In vote of thanks, Letlhakeng District Council chairperson, Mr Gordon Mokgwathi urged the community to prioritise their children’s education, stating that their performance at school was a reflection of the community.

Meanwhile, some residents expressed gratitude for the construction of the Letlhakeng/Kaudwane road, stating that it would facilitate mobility between the communities.

The residents said the construction of the long awaited road would bring an end to the desperation brought by the bad terrain for many years. ENDS