Concerned residents of Sehithwa village used a recent Kgotla meeting to voice growing frustration over the poor state of roads, unsafe traffic conditions and neglected roadside facilities, a situation they say affects their livelihoods.
The meeting was addressed by the Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Noah Salakae this week. Community member Gaetime Moelanyane complained that gravel roads in and around Sehithwa have gone for long periods without grading, making access difficult. He further raised alarm over filthy road resting places, saying litter such as used napkins and plastics pose health risks to livestock.
“The resting places are so dirty that one cannot even sit and eat there. Our livestock end up eating this dirt, which causes infections and diseases. These places need urgent cleaning,” he said.
Another resident, Galontshie Lobaisakae, warned that the gravel used to patch potholes near Makgalo settlement going towards Sehithwa appears salty, attracting goats that lick it along the road, creating a serious hazard for motorists.
Adding to the concerns, Darkie Kamunduuoo said overgrown bushes along roadsides make driving dangerous, as animals can suddenly emerge onto the road unseen. He also highlighted the poor condition of access roads leading to farms, saying many farmers struggle to reach their fields due to badly maintained gravel roads.
Traditional leadership echoed the community’s concerns. Sehithwa Kgosi Keokeditswe Dithapo appealed to the Department of Transport to urgently address traffic congestion along the Maun–Ghanzi and Maun–Gumare routes, warning that the increasing volume of vehicles is inconveniencing travellers and posing safety risks.
The Kgosi said easing congestion would improve the movement of people and goods while reducing accidents, and called for closer cooperation between transport authorities and local leadership.
Responding to the concerns, Minister Salakae, acknowledged the challenges and assured residents that government is committed to addressing them through consultation.
“We are aware of the problems, and we are here to listen to your views. We are only one year into our term, but we are committed to working with you to find lasting solutions,” said Salakae.
He emphasised that improved road infrastructure is a key driver of economic growth and job creation, particularly in tourism-dependent regions such as Ngamiland. He noted that good roads attract investment, support local businesses and create employment opportunities for Batswana, in line with President Duma Boko’s development blueprint.
Salakae further stressed that Kgotla meetings remain an important platform for ensuring development projects respond to the real needs of communities.
Meanwhile, Member of Parliament for Maun West, Caterpillar Hikuama, welcomed the minister’s visit and highlighted the importance of linking roads A3 and A35 to create a corridor through the Kgalagadi region.
“Improving this road will be a game changer for trade and commerce, ensuring smooth movement and, above all, creating jobs,” he said.
Hikuama also appealed for a nationwide campaign to clean roads and rest areas. Minister Salakae concluded by assuring the community that government will continue to engage openly with citizens as it works to improve infrastructure, create jobs and uplift the quality of life for all.
