Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Noah Salakae has assured of the new administration’s commitment to addressing road challenges in the Okavango District that has been a great cause of concern for many years.
The issue took centre stage during his recent Kgotla meetings in the area as residents openly shared their frustrations and expectations. Residents and local leaders complained that deteriorating infrastructure is affecting service delivery, economic activity and even emergency health response in the Okavango District.
However, the minister said he has engaged his technical teams and is using all available resources to fast-track improvements to critical road infrastructure.
Salakae noted that despite budgetary constraints, government is determined to optimise project delivery to ensure communities benefit from meaningful development. He added that improving roads in the region would enhance connectivity, stimulate economic activity and support the broader development agenda for northern Botswana.
Salakae explained that the Nokaneng–Gumare road project had been affected by a review of the Development Manager Model, under which the project was initially planned. He said the review was aimed at determining whether the model contributed to inflated costs or corruption, and to ensure transparency and value for money.
The Minister said the review process was expected to be concluded within two months, after which government would decide on the way forward regarding the road project.
Salakae said continued engagement with communities reflects government’s commitment to transparency, accountability and community-driven development.
Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament for Okavango West, Honourable Kenny Kapinga, said delays in road projects are often caused by poor management and inadequate supervision rather than budget limitations alone.
“Sometimes we blame budgets and other excuses, yet the real issue is poor supervision of projects,” Kapinga said, stressing the need for vigilant oversight and accountability.
Kapinga urged the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure to remain proactive and firm in ensuring projects are executed efficiently and without fear or favour. He also called for increased public education on the new Road Traffic Act, emphasising the need to promote responsible driving and reduce road accidents.
He said improving road safety requires collective responsibility from government, communities and road users alike.
Shakawe Kgosi Mbabo painted a grim picture of the situation, saying the state of roads in the region poses serious risks, particularly during medical emergencies. He explained that from Gudigwa to Shakawe there are only clinics, meaning patients who require advanced medical care must be rushed to JP Kavindama Hospital in Shakawe.
Echoing these concerns, resident Maemo Mwanawasa said the poor condition of roads continues to undermine service delivery and development in the area. She added that delays in fixing roads have become a major concern for communities that rely on them for daily movement and access to essential services.
Meanwhile, residents in Gumare expressed appreciation for progress on the Gumare–Shakawe road project. Gumare Kgosi Moitshepi Molelwa welcomed the development, noting that the road, constructed in the 1990s, had never been properly maintained and had significantly deteriorated over time.
