DAILY

YOUR VOICE IN PARLIAMENT

THE FIRSTTHE SECOND MEETING MEETING OF THE OF THE FIFTH FIRST SESSION SESSION OF THEOF ELEVENTH THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT PARLIAMENT WEDNESDAYTHURSDAYTUESDAY 13 13 07 NOVEMBER FEBRUARY NOVEMBER 20202018 2018

ENGLISH VERSION HANSARDHANSARD NO. 192196

DISCLAIMER Unofficial Hansard This transcript of Parliamentary proceedings is an unofficial version of the Hansard and may contain inaccuracies. It is hereby published for general purposes only. The final edited version of the Hansard will be published when available and can be obtained from the Assistant Clerk (Editorial). THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SPEAKER The Hon. Phandu T. C. Skelemani PH, MP. DEPUTY SPEAKER The Hon. Mabuse M. Pule, MP. ( East)

Clerk of the National Assembly -- Ms B. N. Dithapo Deputy Clerk of the National Assembly -- Mr L. T. Gaolaolwe Learned Parliamentary Counsel -- Ms M. Mokgosi Assistant Clerk (E) -- Mr R. Josiah CABINET His Excellency Dr M. E. K. Masisi, MP. --President

His Honour S. Tsogwane, MP. (Boteti West) --Vice President -Minister for Presidential Affairs, Governance and Public Hon. K. N. S. Morwaeng, MP. ( South) - Administration

Hon. K. T. Mmusi, MP. (-) --Minister of Defence, Justice and Security Hon. Dr U. Dow, MP. (Specially Elected) --Minister of International Affairs and Cooperation Hon. E. M. Molale, MP. (Goodhope-Mabule ) --Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Hon. Dr E. G. Dikoloti MP. (Mmathethe-) --Minister of Agricultural Development and Food Security -Minister of Environment, Natural Resources Conservation Hon. P. K. Kereng, MP. (Specially Elected) - and Tourism Hon. Dr L. Kwape, MP. (Kanye South) --Minister of Health and Wellness Hon. T.M. Segokgo, MP. () --Minister of Transport and Communications Hon. K. Mzwinila, MP. (Specially Elected) --Minister of Land Management, Water and Sanitation Services -Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Hon. T. M. Rakgare, MP. (Mogoditshane) - Development

Hon. A. M. Mokgethi, MP. ( Bonnington North) --Minister of Nationality, Immigration and Gender Affairs Hon. Dr T. Matsheka, MP. () --Minister of Finance and Economic Development Hon. F. M. M. Molao, MP. (Shashe West) --Minister of Basic Education -Minister of Tertiary Education, Research, Science and Hon. Dr. D. Letsholathebe, MP. (Tati East) - Technology -Minister of Mineral Resources, Green Technology and Hon. L. M. Moagi, MP. () - Energy Security

Hon. P. O. Serame, MP. (Specially Elected) --Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry -Minister of Employment, Labour Productivity and Skills Hon. M. Balopi, MP. (Gaborone North) - Development

Hon. M. Kgafela, MP. (Mochudi West) --Minister of Infrastructure and Housing Development

-Assistant Minister, Presidential Affairs, Governance and Hon. D. M. Mthimkhulu, MP. (Gaborone South) - Public Administration -Assistant Minister, Local Government and Rural Hon. K. K. Autlwetse, MP. (Specially Elected) - Development -Assistant Minister, Local Government and Rural Hon. S. N. Modukanele, MP. ( -Maunatlala) - Development -Assistant Minister, Agricultural Development and Food Hon. B. Manake, MP. (Specially Elected) - Security

Hon. S. Lelatisitswe, MP. (Boteti East) --Assistant Minister, Health and Wellness

Hon. N. W. T. Makwinja, MP. (-) --Assistant Minister, Basic Education

Hon. K. S. Gare, MP. (-Manyana) --Assistant Minister, Investment, Trade and Industry -Assistant Minister, Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Hon. H. B. Billy, MP. ( East) - Development Hon. M. R. Shamukuni, MP. (Chobe) --Assistant Minister,Tertiary Education, Research, Science and Technology MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT AND THEIR CONSTITUENCIES

Names Constituency

RULING PARTY ( Democratic Party) Hon. L. Kablay, MP. (Government Whip) - Hon. M. R. Reatile, MP. -Mabutsane Hon. P. Majaga, MP. Nata- Hon. M. I. Moswaane, MP. Francistown West Hon. J. S. Brooks, MP. Kgalagadi South Hon. C. Greeff, MP. Gaborone Bonnington South Hon. T. Letsholo, MP. Kanye North Hon. T. F. Leuwe, MP. Hon. T. Mangwegape-Healy, MP. Gaborone Central Hon. S. N. Moabi, MP. Tati West Hon. M. S. Molebatsi, MP. Hon. T. Monnakgotla, MP. Kgalagadi North Hon. P. K. Motaosane, MP. - Hon. O. Regoeng, MP. Molepolole North Hon. J. L. Thiite, MP. North OPPOSITION (Umbrella for Democratic Change) Hon. D. Saleshando, MP. (Leader of Opposition) Maun West Hon. P. P. P. Moatlhodi, MP. (Opposition Whip) Hon. D. L. Keorapetse, MP. Selebi Phikwe West Hon. Y. Boko, MP East Hon. Dr K. Gobotswang, MP. Sefhare-Ramokgonami Hon. K. C. Hikuama, MP. Ngami Hon. K. K. Kapinga, MP Okavango Hon. G. Kekgonegile, MP. Maun East Hon. A. Lesaso, MP. Hon. T. B. Lucas, MP. Hon. M. G. J. Motsamai, MP. Ghanzi South Hon. K. Nkawana, MP. Selebi Phikwe East Hon. O. Ramogapi, MP. Hon. Dr N. Tshabang, MP. Nkange Hon. D. Tshere, MP. Mahalapye West (Botswana Patriotic Front) Hon. T. S. Khama, MP. West Hon. L. Lesedi, MP. Serowe South Hon. B. Mathoothe, MP. Serowe North (Alliance for Progressives) Hon. W. B. Mmolotsi, MP. Francistown South TABLE OF CONTENTS THE SECOND MEETING OF THE FIRST SESSION OF THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT THURSDAY 13 FEBRUARY, 2020

CONTENTS PAGE (S)

Appropriation 2020/2021 (Bill), 2020 (No.2 of 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)...... 1-32

TABLING OF PAPERS Statutory Instrument No. 15 of 2020 -Hypothecation (Authorised Creditors) (Amendment) Regulations, 2020...... 1 Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS) Annual Report, 2018...... 1 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

Thursday 13th February, 2020 interested in taking their services to areas which do not have good roads. So people end up selling petrol in black THE ASSEMBLY met at 2:00 p.m. markets leading to fatalities as they burn inside their (THE SPEAKER in the Chair) houses, and this is a painful and heartbreaking situation. Mr Speaker my request is that, the assessment of the PRAYERS Ncojane-Hukuntsi road should be expedited. Let me not forget the Ncojane-Lokalane road which connects * * * * us to Kang, which is used by trucks as they pass through MR SPEAKER (MR SKELEMANI): Pray be seated. farms on their way to Metsimantsho to buy cattle. Honourable Members, good afternoon. May we start Other people can also use the road to transport material today’s business with Tabling of Papers. I understand and develop the constituency thus bringing in money. the Minister of Finance and Economic Development has However, this can only happen if those roads are in good a paper to table. condition as this can generate income through tourism. Moreover, the youth can then venture into campsites TABLING OF PAPERS businesses and be able to sustain themselves instead of depending on programmes which are not beneficial to The following paper was tabled: them. Mr Speaker... STATUTORY INSTRUMENT NO. 15 OF MR REATILE: Point of clarification. Thank you Mr 2020 -HYPOTHECATION (AUTHORISED Speaker. Honourable Motsamai, I was saying, looking CREDITORS) (AMENDMENT) REGULATIONS, at how you are explaining the issues of Lokalane road, 2020. the Honourable Ministers and Members of Parliament (Minister of Finance and Economic Development) do not understand how many kilometres(km) one would have reduced if they travel to Namibia via the Lokalane MR SPEAKER: Order! Order! Honourable Members, road. So, maybe it would be helpful if you could explain I understand that the Minister of Finance and Economic so that the Honourable Members can understand that the Development has another paper to table. road can greatly decrease the distance.

BOTSWANA UNIFIED REVENUE SERVICE MR MOTSAMAI: Thank you sir. Other Members do (BURS) ANNUAL REPORT, 2018 not know but P P P knows. Mr Speaker, the intersection between this road and Ncojane road is 199 km, from Later Date. Ncojane to Charles Hill it is 100 km, which is 299 km. If APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, you do not use that road, I believe from Kang to Ghanzi 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) is 280 km , and then you travel 202 km from Ghanzi to Charles Hill, and then from Charles Hill to the border... Second Reading HONOURABLE MEMBER: ...(Inaudible)... (Resumed Debate) MR MOTSAMAI: When you use the road, not when MR SPEAKER: Yesterday when the House adjourned, you are going to look for something. Honourable Motsamai was on the floor and has 16 minutes 48 seconds to his credit. HONOURABLE MEMBERS: ...(Laughter!)...

MR MOTSAMAI (GHANZI SOUTH): Thank you MR MOTSAMAI: Mr Speaker, that can be useful and Mr Speaker, let me proceed with my debate. Yesterday it can reduce the long distance travels. I touched on a few issues, let me pass through this issue that, the people of Ghanzi South constituency in the Mr Speaker, the Ghanzi South constituents said that a lot areas of Ncojane, Metsimantsho and Ranyane want a of mining pits were surveyed in areas like Masetlheng, road that connects the constituency to Kgalagadi; a road Ncojane, and Metsimantsho and they have been closed. from Ncojane to Kgalagadi or Macheng the reason being So they have sent me to ask the relevant authorities that there are poor roads in that constituency. Recently whether those pits were closed without anything inside, people even lost their lives due to lack of services I can see the Minister of Mineral Resources, Green because business people who own filling stations are not Technology and Energy Security there maybe he can

Hansard No 196 1 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

explain. They request that a report be provided for MR MOTSAMAI: I got the constituency from confirmation because maybe something was being done nowhere. Mr Speaker, let me get on the issue of Tirelo which could create employment for the youth and bring Sechaba or Internship officers. Mr Speaker, I compare developments to the community. these officers to the ones I spoke about yesterday that they serve in different Ministries for a long time and I will quickly pass through the issue of network; there when their contracts end, they go back to the streets in is a wildlife camp at Matlhoaphuduhudu. Mr Speaker, search of employment while the Ministries where they people at that camp look after wildlife and us as well were attached are not bothered. These officers should be but there is no communication. A booster should be assisted to get employment in the Ministries they served connected there so that people at those farms and those in, they should not advertise posts whilst those officers working at the mines can be protected and also to are there. These Ministries should absorb these officers improve movement. It is not only the network issue, especially the Ministry of Youth, they should advocate even the road to that area is in a bad state. It is not easy to for these officers instead of talking about the tax owed go to that place more so that it is far. When someone gets by Duma Boko. That is the issue I wanted to quickly sick or their car has a breakdown, it becomes difficult for mention. that person get help. Mr Speaker, I want to proceed so that I finish, I was talking about children, Botswana makes laws be it Mr Speaker, the other issue that I would rush through children’s Act, workers and teachers’ Act but there is is that, there is a need to have a primary school at poor implementation. The problem I have now is that, Charles Hill. The people at Charles have sent me to Dr Matsheka’s budget does not mention anything about tell you that, the enrollment of student in their primary children, not at all! By children I am referring to those has now reached 900 plus. Furthermore this school is who cannot stand up and speak for themselves. During very far because Charles Hill is a growing village with the budget allocation we should ensure that children a population of 4 000.The land board is allocating plots, also have a piece of cake. Studies have shown that and the village is expanding such that, children now Botswana is at 33 per cent risk of having children under access education from far Mr Speaker but… the age of five who are susceptible to being underweight and overweight. One might ask what I mean by being MR MOATLHODI: On a point of elucidation Mr overweight. I mean when children eat unhealthy food Speaker. Thank you Mr Speaker. Good afternoon sir. My which do not nourish the body but instead makes them deepest apologies Honourable Member of Parliament fat Mr Speaker. for Ghanzi South disturbing your well structured HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Murmurs)… debate. Let me take you aback my colleague who I love so dearly. I did not get you well when you were talking MR MOTSAMAI: Mr Speaker, still on the issue of children; Botswana is rated at number 44 globally about roads. I did not hear you talk about a road from regarding the issue I just mentioned. You see how you are Ghanzi when you travel straight towards the west, embarrassing us Dr Matsheka. That is why yesterday I passing a herd of wildlife through to Ranyane cattle said, you have good initiatives, your love for this country posts, on a huge sandy road, and then you enter Ncojane is undisputable, you want to develop this country but the from the eastern side. Thank you sir. problem is that, you are under the administration of the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP). MR MOTSAMAI: You are on the right track P.P.P. That is the same road I was talking about; it is Lokalana and Mr Speaker, as I am about to conclude, let me advise my Lonetree road. As you were talking I remembered one colleagues of the… issue which I wanted to talk about Mr Speaker that, I HONOURABLE MEMBER: Clarification. am one Member of Parliament whose constituency has not been represented for the past 10 years. My MR MOTSAMAI: I am not yielding for any predecessor had his own mandate and his health issues clarification. Keep it, you will clarify after I sit down. also contributed, so in other words when I took over the constituency no development had been done so it is very Mr Speaker, I would like to advise my colleagues from crucial that if possible I could be allocated more time the Botswana Democratic Party that our mandate here is than other Honourable Members. to represent the people of this country. People are facing challenges which are more serious than the games were HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Laughter!)… are playing and our comments.

2 Hansard No 196 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

Honourable Members, it is public knowledge that BDP HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Laughter!)… is in two factions. You come here and talk about Duma Boko and Saleshando, criticising them and saying MR SPEAKER: That is really his aim so that the Duma Boko should be dismissed. Honourable Rakgare likes of Honourable Reatile, Honourable Majaga can stop saying that. You are asking for trouble. It is public now look it from that perspective that at least there is knowledge that the appointment of Ministers was not someone who recognises their value. That is his aim. based on merit but on which faction one belongs to. It is This has nothing to do with the President, all he wants public knowledge that the likes of Honourable Rakgare to do is divide you. were only appointed in order to silence them. It is public MR MOTSAMAI: Mr Speaker, the BDP have not knowledge that… refuted the allegations from the newspapers that the MR BOKO: On a point of clarification Mr Speaker. Secretary General of the BDP Honourable Balopi, is Thank you Minister, you have said it all. not welcome and number one and him do not see eye to eye. It is public knowledge. You should not come here HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Laughter!)… and provoke the leadership of Umbrella for Democratic MR BOKO: He is a Minister at our party. Thank you my Change (UDC). You said we should let Masisi rule, so colleague. What you are saying is right. You explained you should also let Boko oppose. I rest my case My that some were appointed ministers not on merit. In Speaker. other words, you are saying members like Honourable HONOURABLE MEMBERS: … (Applause!)… Mephato Reatile could have been appointed because they are more capable than Rakgare. ASSISTANT MINISTER OF YOUTH HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Murmurs)… EMPOWERMENT, SPORT AND CULTURE DEVELOPMENT (MR BILLY): Thank you Mr MR MOTSAMAI: Exactly Honourable Boko. The Speaker. Let me also thank you for giving me an likes of Honourable Letsholo and Honourable Majaga, opportunity to air my views on the Budget as presented “Chest Out,” and others could have been appointed but by the Minister. Firstly, I would like to appreciate were not appointed because of that reason Mr Speaker. Honourable Matsheka for following the trend because HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Laughter!)… when you look back, every year the Government would indicate what it intends to do and the same went for MR MOTSAMAI: Mr Speaker, let me conclude by next year. I believe that is the right procedure, that if saying it is public knowledge that number 1 in our you have interests you wish to carry out for the nation, country is fighting with the Secretary General of the Botswana Democratic Party. you consult them and you should also come up with a plan that can guide you to make a proper budget. BDP MINISTER OF YOUTH EMPOWERMENT, Manifesto explained our status in 1966, where we were SPORT AND CULTURE DEVELOPMENT (MR in 1990 and where we are today. We went on to explain RAKGARE): On a point of order Mr Speaker. I thank that in 1966, the country was poor but we had minerals you Mr Speaker. I think you must call Honourable Motsamai to order because he is denigrating the which we used to transform the economy of this country. President. He portrays him as someone who lacks If you look at other African countries, the minerals they responsibility because the appointment of Ministers is the had or have, instead of using them to transform people’s sole responsibility of the President. He is now alluding lives, the leaders used them for personal gain, fighting, that certain Members of Parliament should have been oppressing the nation or in any other way which did appointed because the ones holding the Ministerial posts not benefit that nation at all. I want to commend BDP were not appointed on merit, he is dragging the name of that they are doing so well in that area. I believe that the President in the mud. He is unnecessarily provoking whatever we are doing, shows that we can be trusted us, which is wrong and he must be called to order. He looking at our track record. must withdraw those vile words. When we talk about transformation, we started MR SPEAKER: Honourable Members order! Order! It transformation agenda in 1990, since last year and is in us, but I do not think he is denigrating the President. this year we talked about second transformation. We It is in us to the sense that if I understand him well, he are moving from upper middle income status because wants to divide you the BDP. that is where our economy was. Mr Speaker, that was

Hansard No 196 3 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

done but we still encounter challenges when it comes protected, it can protect small businesses. Right now the to leading the nation. We came up with points that law is relaxed. If we can bar wholesales from selling could help, for example, implementation is one of the item by item as if they are retailers, small businesses factors which cause this country’s economy to go down can improve. Maybe you can look into this because that hence low budget. The reason being that, projects use system is responsible for the stunted growth of small more funds than was budgeted for. It causes economic businesses. I am happy Honourable Matsheka because downfall because it impacts negatively on the economy. … Honourable Molale, I believe you still remember that we used to have service standards in Government. These HONOURABLE MEMBER: … (Inaudible)… were used in Government offices to give customers MR BILLY: Matsheka! Matsheka! I think Honourable turnaround time. Honourable Matsheka, I believe Speaker will understand why there is that difficulty. these can come in very handy in other ministries at the moment. Maybe we should recycle them and see if we The private sector; I am happy that you mentioned that cannot come up with new standards and review them to Government is now partnering with the private sector the current times. Today we believe that results coincide to create employment. This is because Government as with timeliness. If I need a permit and I do not get it at a stakeholder, comes up with infrastructure so that a that time, at the end I would lose that business because business owner can trade without any obstacle. That in I compete with other countries which deliver their itself can make the business grow because those are the services on time. obstacles which set back Batswana’s businesses. Still on that one, we should continue promoting Buy Botswana Let me congratulate Citizen Entrepreneurial because it also helps the private sector to grow because Development Agency (CEDA) Honourable Finance our budget … and Economic Development Minister, they are saying their payments are made within 24 hours if you have MINISTER OF HEALTH AND WELLNESS (DR submitted everything. If Government departments could KWAPE): Elucidation. You are on track my colleague. I employ the same attitude, we could not be discussing wanted you to emphasize this issue of small businesses, service standards, that their service has gone down. especially tuck-shops, that they should be protected As we speak, everyone could be happy that we are because now you will find that supermarkets are productive. Still on that, I am happy that you mentioned responsible for handing out government parcels. Thank we are going to have a Citizen Economic Empowerment you. Act. I believe that it will be better if it changes from ASSISTANT MINISTER OF YOUTH policy because policy is relaxed, an Act will force you EMPOWERMENT, SPORT AND CULTURE to carry out what needs to done. Hawkers work under DEVELOPMENT (MR BILLY): Minister of Health unpredictable circumstances; today they make sales and Wellness, Honourable Kwape, that is a great idea. but tomorrow they may not. However, if we have an I have seen these issues where small businesses were Act such as this one, it is going to protect them such closed because they were close to a giant that is ,shops that these businesses will change the way they operate. that are from outside, or which were started here. Another one is that we need to ensure that … Then you will find that they are competing with tuck- shops that are owned by our mothers and sisters, which ASSISTANT MINISTER OF LOCAL I believe that their existence can grow our economy GOVERNMENT AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT (MR MODUKANELE): Thank you my colleague, easily. Buy Botswana; Mr Speaker, can be of much help you are debating very well. I need clarification when it now because people who benefit from the money that we comes to service standards. Service standard are targets, budget for are South African as food or products that we please clarify if these are the targets that were denied buy, most of them are from South Africa. We as Batswana here by Leader of Opposition and his crew? should change our mindset that our local products are of poor quality, we should know that if we continue to talk MR BILLY: That is true sir. The Ministry of Investment, like that, we are degrading Batswana every day. Still on Trade and Industry, Honourable Member Gare, since we that one, let me also touch on the issue of Constituency want to improve the lives of small businessmen, let us Fund. Honourable Matsheka, that is a great idea because have wholesales selling in bulk. Somehow we can be you have made it possible for remote villages to make

4 Hansard No 196 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

an income. You will find that the economy is controlled to sustain the economy of that area. My colleague, that by people in those areas because if for example one is a was my point. The other issue that I have is the one of builder and he gets a small tender, he will employ other the creative industry. Really this issue of art and culture, locals in the areas which means there will be income many people take it for granted and do not see it as a in a lot of homesteads. That on its own Mr Speaker, source of income. However, this Ministry had your helps a lot. What I am concerned about, which needs full support…I request for your support, that you give improvement is monitoring of the constituency fund to the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture establish whether it is carried out according to the set Development (MYSC) more money because it is one of guidelines, because now it seems like in the first two the ministries which has many opportunities, that can years, the management of that fund yielded positive create jobs. You will find that we are not doing that, we results. Now presently it seems like things are done focus on individuals, especially when the youth say they haphazardly. The other thing is that there should be want the Youth Development Fund (YDF); there would intense awareness about the Constituency Fund, it is be one who wants goats and the one who wants to open not supposed to be divided between wards; where the a television station, we then consider the one for goats, other one does culvert, the other bring dustbins, the instead of the one who wants a television station as he other builds security house, and the other builds a toilet. can create employment opportunities with people using This fund should be used to carry out one project in a the services of the station. They can use the television constituency, for example, in Francistown Honourable to advertise their products, thus making a lot money. Moswaane, Honourable Billy and Honourable Also television can give the country exposure hence Mmolotsi, can take the three P10 million which is promoting tourism. I ask for your support Honourable P30 million and do one project in Francistown, that can Members that the Ministry of MYSC becomes number change the economy. Many people can be employed in 2 in the budget. We should know that we are talking of that project instead of doing small projects in different a ministry that has people who are still very active. If it wards. is at number two, we will be fighting unemployment. There are many job; when we talk of print media, HONOURABLE MEMBER: Clarification which will be making magazines, the youth can do some advertisements, and even to run newspapers. Those are MR BILLY: No, I am busy sir. Let me leave you, I feel some of the things that can improve the economy of sorry for you. this country. Even marketing; online and radios, are HONOURABLE MEMBER: … (Laughter!)… some of the things that can improve the economy of this country, and that can be done if this ministry can be MR MOATLHODI: On a point of clarification. Thank given more funds . It is not that the ministry is failing, it is because there are not enough funds Honourable you Honourable Mr Speaker, thank you Honourable Finance Minister. I ask for this ministry to be given Member of Parliament for Francistown, who is also my more funds so that we can improve it. We are saying uncle. Since this is a democratic country that believes this because when you look at other countries, maybe go in consultation, if the people of Tonota Central want international; the United State (US), the major drive of to have their own project is it a problem Honourable their economy that contributes to 698 billion is from the Assistant Minister? creative arts. That shows that if we can do that, we can MR BILLY: If you really listened to me very well, I did improve and generate a lot of funds , many youth can be employed because we have many unemployed graduates not say it was a problem, I said, there is a way we can who can use that chance or opportunity. When you also improve this programme because the way we are running look at United Kingdom the creative industry or arts it now, does not yield much results. This programme and culture is the one boosting the economy of that was formed with the intention of growing the economy country. Just here in South Africa, Honourable Minister of that constituency or that town. Now it seems like we Rakgare, there is Johannesburg where there is a lot of are not running it accordingly. The other issue was that youth training. Many of us watch Generations, but we of dealing with unemployment. The thing is that, when do not know how it started. So, I am asking we make projects separately, unemployment will prevail because when those projects are completed, they would So, I am pleading with the Honourable Members that not be of much benefit to those people. If we are going when we talk about Ministry of Youth Empowerment, to do a big project, for example a factory, it is going Sport and Culture Development (MYSC), they should

Hansard No 196 5 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

know that it is one ministry which can give us 75 per cent that, at the same time Ministry of Health and Wellness employment opportunities. Agriculture can fall under benefits because we protect people against diseases, this ministry because it is given resources and everything these exercises will make sure that this ministry does while this ministry does not have infrastructure which not build many hospitals and that means that we will the youth can use for television. I am asking for funds, I have more money since we will have a small number of am not crying. I am asking for funding from you, funds sick people due to the fact that the creative youth teaches which can be used to improve the ministry. people that they have to wash their hands after using the restrooms; not communicating through talking. One other thing which I was trying to explain is that the commercial banks should understand that when we talk HONOURABLE MEMBER: You are debating very about economic transformation, they should also have well. a giant impact in making sure that the youth who are into creative industry can be helped more because it can MR BILLY: I am debating brilliantly. There is Silicon generate a lot of money in the long run. Valley at USA which is a special zone of industrial arts. I have already talked about the one at South Africa; it is The other thing is that this ministry needs support from zone which has been made to develop the lives of the the Honourable Members. We need infrastructure, youth. a proper policy which can help to guide on what this ministry can do to ensure that the youth are assisted on Fourth Industrial Revolution; MYSC needs a lot of issues of creative arts. We need more budget, like I said. resources and it will only have them if the Honourable We need an Art Regulatory Body which will regulate Members can be robust when discussing issues which how the arts can be managed. I believe that these things affect this ministry because we need human and capital can help us to elevate our economy easily. Honourable resources. I believe that if we can support this ministry Members, these things can only happen if we want to to advance like that, it can help us a lot. see the arts assisting with businesses to growth. When I For Fourth Industrial Revolution to take place, the perform putting my hands on top of my head, advertising records have to be kept 100 per cent because if they features of a Nissan car; that is art, and it can create are not there, it is not a reality because you do not have money for the youth and also improve the economy of proper records. We should have those records to guide our country. and give information. The other thing that can happen if we do not have proper records is that we will have That is why we have to look at the fact that when we an increase in corruption and national security will say that a business generates money, we are not talking also have threats. Cases; people lose cases because about common businesses of opening a shop and then they do not have proper records; that is, not having the saying, “I run my business” We mostly talk about the accurate time and dates. If you can start by bringing that land that is not serviced. Youth owned Businesses which confusion, you have lost the case, not meaning that you am talking about, can operate without land, they can did not have a case, but only because you did not have operate through a smartphone. I believe that you are proper records. I believe that it is one thing which can there to assist or support us. help us.

Honourable Rakgare, we can benchmark on other When talking about Francistown, for their economy to countries. Maybe you can use China as an example; develop, they have to have developed internal roads so they have a special zone where creative arts are being that movement around the city can be easy for business done. There is Xinjiang; where people are being trained people. Francistown roads have to be developed to on how to act, others learn different things like karate ensure that the economy of the city develops. and to enhance the mentality of the youth. The youth have many ideas and they do not only portray them Storm water drainage; I always receive calls from through communication, they act. With art you can Francistown every time after it rains. communicate, you do not only do that by talking but also MR SPEAKER: Quorum! through acting. You can communicate through paintings and other things and through commination, lives of MR BILLY: I always receive calls that water has entered people can be bettered. One can draw how people people’s houses every time after it rains, I always receive can protect themselves against diseases. When we do a lot of cases about water. The truth of the matter is that

6 Hansard No 196 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

these are not floods, it seems like floods because there is not been managing funds prudently. If you look at the no storm water drainage. Minister, I believe that...when issue of BMC and our other parastatals such as Botswana we debate, know that Francistown is in need of a storm Development Corporation (BDC), which was once water drainage. allocated funds to establish a Fengyue Glass Factory at Palapye, you can see that the funds have gone down the The minister has stood up! Nyangabwe Hospital has drain. That is why I am saying the issue he presented a huge challenge because we have a delayed district that we have to monitor or observe efficient spending hospital which should have long been constructed. The is one of the issues we learnt through BDC, as it was rumor is that this hospital will now be constructed at allocated funds but did not utilise them accordingly. Tonota, but I believe that those are just rumors. We need this hospital to be constructed at Francistown because One can now wonder, what is the purpose of the many Tonota is near Francistown hence they can access it buildings at Palapye? It is now time for the Minister to from Tonota, as well as to use Nyangabwe Hospital. I decide what they are going to do with those buildings. believe that will be a drawback. Currently they are white elephants and are now nests for birds. What is the Minister’s position because it is clear Minister, I support your Budget. We support it because that those buildings have already been constructed? we believe that job opportunities which targets the youth When we say Botswana Democratic Party failed us, will be created. Minister, I have already explained that Government and Batswana, we are referring to such the youth are an explosive constituency when not cared for. Unrests at other countries were not started by a 90 issues. year old adult, they were started by the youth. Thank Moving on to other issues; the other issue he presented you Honourable Speaker. is monitoring companies awarded Government projects. HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)… For example, a house as small as LA2, you will find that in Gaborone when tendered for it cost P750 000.00. If MR SPEAKER: The floor is open Honourable it was properly costed it would amount to P350 000.00. Members. These are monitoring tools we are talking about because then public funds end up being channelled to wrong MR MATHOOTHE (SEROWE NORTH): Thank you Mr Speaker for giving me the opportunity to ends. So these projects have to be monitored. comment on the speech just presented before us by If you go to other areas, you will find a small culvert Minister Honourable Dr Matsheka. He presented a very excellent speech which shows that he wants to make estimated to be constructed at millions while it is some changes. The only problem is that there are so supposed to cost close to P200 000.00. This is one way many challenges . which the money we are complaining that is not enough is going down the drain. The first point I want to discuss is the one which he explained that Botswana Meat Commission (BMC) is Moving on to the Ministry of Education; there was insolvent and there is nothing that can be done. This is a a question asked here about buildings which the clear indication that the Botswana Democratic Party has Ministry of Education is paying rent for but have not failed so it should now release BMC and allow it to be to be run by a management company . This is an indication been occupied. This is a lot money whereas those of that they have failed us. Be that as it may Mr Speaker, us from villages like Majwanaadipitse and Gojwane since we heard about this from Dr Matsheka’s speech, have a shortage of classrooms but in Gaborone funds the burning question is whether the employees were are being wasted by paying rent for buildings which are informed of this transition. We do not want a situation unoccupied. It is embarrassing and very disheartening to whereby employees become disgruntled and end up see such practice. It is now time for the Minister to have leaving for greener pastures. When that management powers and monitor these ministries. He should not just company comes they find that all the critical staff of BMC have resigned. I would like to advise you on such sit back and relax after allocating funds because when matters so that we quickly take action. we complain about such issues in Parliament we expect him to be accountable as the Minister of Finance and Moving on to other issues the Minister spoke about, he Economic Development. talked a lot about efficient spending by the Government. We concur with him. Botswana Democratic Party has HONOURABLE MEMBER: Really!

Hansard No 196 7 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

MR MATHOOTHE: They explained that in Parliament; catchment area, you will find that they pass at high rate, that they do not know. These are the issues we have to instead of improving the results as they progress, they go observe. down. The Ministry of Basic Education must therefore hasten to attend to this situation. Still in Education; you might realise that in the previous budget more especially in special education, you will The Speaker, in this budget, we heard about air assets. find that they utilised only 1.1 per cent of the total In one of the National Development, it was indicated budget. However in this financial year, their budget that Paje Barracks must be funded and be turned into a has been increased by 30 per cent. One cannot help military academy. With the huge budget that the ministry but wonder if they are being rewarded for not utilising has been allocated, they should consider military the funds. These are issues which have to be closely academy to upskill soldiers. Paje Military Academy monitored because at our special education schools, you must be developed and be upgraded to the status they will find that there are a lot of things which need to be talked about. Paje Barracks is the second largest after done but when you come to Parliament and realise that Thebephatshwa. Our Cadets are trained there but the funds were not utilised, it is disheartening. At the end of standard is very low. I believe that the Minister will the financial year the funds are used for workshops so consider having military academy where soldiers can that they cannot be returned. The Minister has to closely be trained in special skills instead of taking them to monitor such practices. America and other places whereas we have a place that can be utilised. I believe that it was the right move by Sometimes when you look at these things, you will Government to consider having it developed. If the find that the Ministry of Education has been allocated academy can be upgraded to the world class standard, a largest share of the budget for projects which are a we will reduce costs that we can incur if we send our priority. While I was touring my constituency, one major soldiers to train in other areas like Sandhurst. discovery I came across is that there are no classrooms Health; we have Old Sekgoma Memorial Hospital and and staff accommodation. There is a serious need an old Institute of Health Sciences (IHS) where the for maintenance in our schools. My constituency has rehabilitation centre is going to be established. As I four junior secondary schools and one senior school. speak, Old Sekgoma Memorial Hospital was refurbished It has 13 primary schools but every time the Ministry and it can be turned into a clinic that can be opened as of Education visits Patikwane School they say it must per the agreement. As I speak, it is closed, those beautiful be closed because the ceilings are falling down. At buildings are not serving any purpose. We need to look the bathrooms, students are forced to place their wash into this because we used a lot of funds on that project. basins on top of stones. They are infected with fungus. It is a beautiful clinic of high standard. If we continue This situation since it is a boarding school makes some to leave it unutilised, it may get ruined. The Minister students who are admitted there from villages like… should hasten to attend to this issue because it was said that the clinic will operate 24 hours. We should not let MINISTER OF YOUTH EMPOWERMENT, that building get ruined before utilisation. SPORT AND CULTURE DEVELOPMENT (MR RAKGARE): Procedure. Thank you Honourable The Speaker, another one I almost forgot is that, in our Member. Speaker, Honourable Boko is sleeping, ask primary schools, sometimes ablutions are built but never members next to him to wake him up. He is still young, opened for use. They start experiencing problems from I wonder why he sleeps. the time they are finished. As I speak, in Serowe North, there were toilets which were built in the same fashion HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Murmurs)… but they have not been opened and they are not working. The students have gone back to using pit latrines which MR MATHOOTHE: Mr Speaker, I was still talking are currently full. We need to follow up cases where about Patikwane School which is not in a good state. buildings are completed but never opened for use. Students from Majwanaadipitse admitted for boarding, It will be wrong to come here and say that we need dodge from school and go back to where they come from supplementary budget whereas the little we are given is because bathrooms are unhygienic. This has caused not used proficiently. It shows that the time has come Patikwane to obtain the last position in the results. If for Botswana Democratic Party (Domkrag) to vacate you look at the primary schools results of Patikwane Government. Thank you Mr Speaker.

8 Hansard No 196 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

MR MOTAOSANE (THAMAGA-KUMAKWANE): In passing Mr Speaker, I wish to touch on health issues Thank you Mr Speaker. I can see that the holidays and state that it seems like as Members of Parliament treated you well. Firstly, I would like to thank you and we are here to attack each other after having received the Minister of Finance for your report. the budget speech. When we hear that a certain project has been allocated to a certain constituency, it does not We appreciate the fact that you did your best to see sit well with other Honourable Members, let me give an how this budget can best benefit us. The first thing that example, when you were talking about Health, I had my I would like to mention is that, I am very worried by colleague speaking in an improper manner and trying to you saying that going forward, as we allocate funds, portray our President as someone who takes resources we must find ways that can generate income. Inmy to his area… view, when you talk about improving the way we use funds, I suspect that somewhere, the funds we release to HONOURABLE MEMBER: He does that. ministries must not be used responsibly. I am wondering which monitoring tool can be used to monitor if the MR MOTAOSANE: … like you hear a person saying funds released are being used correctly. he does that, these issues show lack of responsibility. For your information, the people of Moshupa have Maybe from my experience in councils, you are going to long requested for a hospital as far back as the era find that funds allocated for posts which used to be there of President Masisi’s father. The people of Moshupa … it is just that currently, when a person resigns from remained patient even during Mr Mooka’s era but still work, that post remains vacant. Most of the time, these there was no hospital. Mr Masisi then took over but still funds are vired to cater for emergencies. I do not think the hospital was not there. Now are we saying that when that is a prudent way of using funds and therefore should the time has come for the people of Moshupa to also be looked into. We have, I do not know if I have to call get a hospital, we should not address that situation only it the so-called zero growth of Government employees. because the President is from Moshupa and then start This thing is giving me a hard time to understand it. In demonising him, accusing him of doing things in an some ministries, many posts are created, creating high unacceptable way. There you are talking… posts which require a lot of money. When you look at where we really need employees, maybe the output HONOURABLE MEMBER: Clarification. there, should match the amount of money that we MR MOTAOSANE: I am not giving you the allocate them, they do not match. I am still concerned clarification. I know that you are not clarifying, but you about hearing that International Monetary Fund (IMF) want to derail me. When we have come to this House has once shown that the wage bill is high … I have not we are not supposed to advocate for people of our heard how it is now, but my concern is that there are no constituencies and then when we see projects going to employees at councils. There are no employees Minister other constituencies we feel they do not deserve them. I of Finance. am deliberately saying this because if you go to Palapye, When I say that there are no employees, I am saying this which the Honourable Member was talking about, because now, if you go to , we have agreed feeling that resources are not supposed to go to other on sub-districts that should have been set up, being the constituencies. Now Palapye is almost like the city of Gaborone and to make matters worse, we would not be likes of Mogoditshane, Thamaga, Lentsweletau and talking about the tragedy of Selebi-Phikwe, economic MAA but still now, they are still under one roof. That wise, if we implemented the recommendations that shows that when you talk of employees of a single sub- Botswana International University of Science and district, when you compare their number with other sub- Technology (BIUST) should be built in Selibe Phikwe, districts, you will see that we are still far from saying some just took it and said it is going to Palapye. that the workforce of Government or council like that of Kweneng is high. We are still complaining about the HONOURABLE MEMBER: Now you are saying it availability of resources in our districts. People do not is okay? receive services because we do not have employees, but the wage bill keeps on going high. Maybe we need to MR MOTAOSANE: I am not saying it is okay, I am reconcile the two, see where the problem lies because on trying to show that when you say that Honourable Masisi my own, I do not believe it is about the many employees because he is President, the hospital is not supposed to that are there. go to his area…

Hansard No 196 9 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

HONOURABLE MEMBER: … (Inaudible)… The other problem that I have noticed regarding budgets we present is maintenance. It is not often when … MR MOTAOSANE: Honourable Hikuama, keep quiet; Honourable Minister, through you Mr Speaker. When a when you are talking I never talk. Now if you want me building is constructed, some funds should be set aside to talk when you are talking, I will do that. I want to for maintenance. This is not happening. Whether it is a respect you as a Member of this House in good standing, road or what, this is how things are supposed to be done. who is responsible. The Standing Order that was read That is why you then request a lot of money because to us not so long ago, was referring to this kind of you will find that all the structures are so dilapidated, behaviour, so please, let us just refrain from clowning, and come and talk about things that concern us. As and they need a lot of money, good enough that you Members of Parliament, these tendency of complaining can do a new infrastructure completely as opposed to when developments go to a certain constituency should maintaining the one that has been there. These things stop. We are saying these things because some of us I was saying let us address them, as you are allocating here, we expect support when we ask for developments this money, let there be a monitoring tool to see ways in our constituencies, like now Honourable Minister, I on how this money is used. am expecting to expand Thamaga hospital because it is long overdue. It is similar to that of Palapye and Education; I am happy that you have indicated that you he is right. The hospital at Palapye is not in a good have allocated the Ministry of Education the largest state, but he cannot go out and say it was not befitting share. Now here is where my concern is. In your speech, that a hospital should be built at Moshupa because the you have shown that building of human capital, is one President is from Moshupa. That is very wrong. of your top priorities. You are right, but for example, when you get to Early Childhood, that is where we Now I would to say to Honourable Matsheka that one of have a problem. We came up with a programme, but the problem with our reviews is that they take long time. as the programme is, it does not seem like it is being They cannot address issues that we would like to see monitored. There is no coordinator, you will only find being addressed. We have talked about reviews such as, people who offer this programme at primary schools Integrated Support Programme for Arable Agricultural without a Head of Department (HOD) for Early Development (ISPAAD) like Honourable Gobotswang Childhood who can ensure that it runs according to how proposed that we should use a new approach. We have the government wants it to run. Therefore, when we talk long been saying, we want to review ISPAAD, but it is not coming forward. These are the things that now about these people, we wish to develop human capital, cause people to stand up and call the whole budget it should start from the roots, so that when it grows, it and mention reviews, reviews and reviews. It is a can be noticeable that it is running according to how must to review, but the time we take to review is not it is intended to run. If we neglect it at its lower level, appropriate. Let us speed these things up, so that we this means that we will admit pupils who are raw at the are able to know that people at the constituencies , are level which we expect and or hope to see benefits. I waiting for resources that are coming to them. Let me plead with you and/or the Ministry of Basic Education ask that as the Ministry of Health seems to have had a to realise that in the absence of HODs at that level, bit of luck, but I believe that these funds are insufficient the teachers and principals at primary schools are not because when you talk of issues of health, you will find interested. that hospitals are dilapidated. All the machinery that is An example is that when you go to Kumakwane, the available in hospitals, is not working. Right now, I came areas in which pupils are being taught in are a disgrace. with children that were supposed to do some X-rays at We would rather have pupils at upper level, standard Thamaga and the machine has not been working for a five or six being the ones who are taught outside the while. When they tried to go to Molepolole, they were classrooms and or in the condition that the pupils at told the same thing that there the machine is also not clear, and they were told to go to Kanye or Ramotswa. Kumakwane Primary School are being taught in. I do This is not right because we know that we are dealing not know if it was a storeroom or what. Those pupils with people that economically, they are not in a good are being taught in that condition, around 30 pupils in position. Therefore, we should lessen the costs of a storeroom. Are we saying that, that situation shows people who travel long distances, to get services. Now that we are trying to build people? There are no HODs this budget could be addressing these kind of issues. who manage this Early Childhood Programme, there

10 Hansard No 196 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

is no coordinator not even at the ministry. When you thinking that the person who zoned the agricultural question the Principal Education Officer (PEO), you sector into economic zones made a mistake by forgetting will notice that it is just a programme which has been Kweneng. So, I request that you go and evaluate these lumped there, there is no administration which manages things. how it is being run. I am saying, let us go and improve those conditions so that we can get value for money out Honourable Minister, through you Mr Speaker, you also of what is happening. Thank you. explained in the developments part of your Budget that there are some projects which seem to be financed. I Minister, when I proceed, through you Honourable am a little bit disappointed when it comes to this area, I Speaker, you stated how you wish the agricultural saw the roads which you talked about, thank you. There sector can be developed. At Ministry of Agriculture, is a road intersection of Mogoditshane-Gabane road to when you get there, almost every door has doctors and Mmankgodi junction. Thank you, that is right. When these doctors are now... I do not know whether they are Kubung road is not mentioned among them, just know that the government has poured funds into a bottomless clerks, because they are all crowded in a Ministry, the pit. Why am I saying that? We have done everything to very same ministry which we want to decentralize so reach the stage of only being left with the construction that these people can go and see how the agricultural part, we have designed, Environmental Impact sector can grow. There are no supervisors there, there Assessment (EIA) has been carried, EIA Management are no resources there. When you get here, I believe Plan has been done and we are only left with that part. that each one of those doctors has a vehicle, which I believe that this project is not deliberately being we do not know where they are transporting them to. financed because of some people somewhere who They do not go to the Constituencies to supervise there believe that Kubung is an area which does not deserve and or to go and implement ideas which can develop to have a road. our agricultural sector, they are just in the ministry. I I would like to help your ministry, because when you think that, I quote your words, you said, “it cannot be talk about growing crops as a way to bring income business as usual.” For us to get maximum output in through agriculture, it is important for Kubung to be one the agricultural sector, we have to see that these doctors of the roads which should be constructed and it should go to the field to see that work is being done. You are not stop at Kubung, it should pass to and on the right track, we have agreed that the agricultural Jwaneng. That is where you will get the maximum results of why it is important to construct that road. So, sector can generate a rich income and create a lot of I can see that someone wants to block it and I do not opportunities at my constituency. I would like to ask my know what their reasons are. Minister, before going favorite Honourable Minister Dr Dikoloti to visit my any further, we do not need a lot of funds because the constituency. People who were zoning the Economic design and other processes have already been done for Zones made a mistake by leaving Kweneng out because this road to be erected from Kubung to Moshaweng and when you talk about food production in Botswana, you Jwaneng. So, if we can neglect the part that has been done, that will mean that we would have poured over are talking about Kweneng, Southern, and some parts of P25 million of the Government down the drain. This is Central. So, when you talk about Pandamatenga, who not right, it cannot be right, it should not be condoned if are already so developed, I am talking about Borolong, it will seem like we are giving cuts to contractors who I did not mean gaMmangwato, I mean Borolong. do supervisions and other duties to start projects so that Excluding Kweneng does not give a clear picture that we we can shelve them. An example is the Molepolole road, can have enough food security. A typical example, when the dualing has been done, people have taken the money you go to , you will find robust agricultural and left, today we do not even know when it is going committees, they do not cultivate five hectares there, to be done; this cannot be right, it cannot be business they cultivate 20 and above... as usual. Let us evaluate ourselves and see that we do things the proper way, but... HONOURABLE MEMBER: ...(Inaudible)... MINISTER OF YOUTH EMPOWERMENT, MR MOTAOSANE: Yes, there is land there. That is SPORT AND CULTURE DEVELOPMENT (MR why we are supposed to facilitate them to produce food RAKGARE): Point of elucidation. Honourable which will be supplied to those who do not have land. Member, I have been listening to you attentively uncle. That is what I am saying Honourable Moatlhodi. I was I wanted to say that Kubung road does not only connect

Hansard No 196 11 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

with Moshaweng and Jwaneng, it is the one which college of education. That is not fair. I really do not intersects with Magagarape all the way to the tarred understand how we came to that decision or conclusion road which goes to Takatokwane. I believe that I am of saying interns can be paid the same amount as a doing the right thing by supporting you. It is important tertiary student’s allowance yet they are working. for Honourable Matsheka to listen to you. If you can get to the offices, Interns are working hard. MR MOTAOSANE: Thank you Honourable, you are I still think we need to indicate that if we say youth are stating it exactly how it should be. I thought that since we on Internship, they are productive at the same time. once went to ask for funding outside the country, saying Therefore, we cannot say that since they are learning, that we are going to use it to build roads, Honourable they are not supposed to get an amount which can be Motsamai is fortunate because roads were constructed enough to cover their transport and accommodation at his constituency and that is why he is mocking other costs because they are not offered Internship positions back at their home village. They are offered in people when they talk about roads. So, he does not know Gaborone or Molepolole while they stay at Thamaga. what he is talking about. I am thinking that, during that This is not fair. Let us consider that there should be a time, we should have constructed roads in a way that will special dispensation that if you give them P3, 000.00 benefit the whole country, by ensuring that the district to P4, 000.00, it is better. They are graduates. They roads end up intersecting with other roads. For example, have the qualification and they are producing results the road to Kubung Honourable Rakgare when it gets to at their ministries. Please go and review it Honourable Thamaga, one would be tempted to go to and Minister. I know that we are always complaining about use Gakgatla road to get to Gakuto, and Bokaa. shortage of funds but it should be reviewed. I think we This would have reduced congestion on the A1 road. are abusing these people. So let me request the Minister that as he is considering MR MOTSAMAI: On a point of elucidation Mr constructing Kubung road, he should also consider the Speaker. My colleague is on the right track. I am road from Gakgatla to Gamodubu. It should not just concerned because I also made the same mistake; end at Gamodubu, it should pass to Gakuto through to Interns, Tirelo Sechaba volunteers and Special Kopong. And from Kopong to join Bokaa. The impact Constables as I was saying maybe we do not request of these roads, you will see the viability of the economic enough Minister, we should go deep; we request that growth which we would have if we have roads of such you address the challenges faced by these youth. They designs. have been dealing with it for a very long time. Because otherwise we are going to talk about the same challenge, Moving on, Honourable Minister, let me make this in years to come while these people are suffering. So the request; when it comes to infrastructure, we want to Ministers should quickly address this situation. establish farms in our attempt to produce food, areas like Phuduhudu is where you will find skilled farmers MR MOTAOSANE: I conclude by saying, my Minister and they wish to produce seeds as opposed to engaging of Finance said, it would not be business as usual. I trust farmers from outside to assist with seed supply. The him to look into the issues we raised observing timelines. road I was talking about can be constructed up to I conclude thus Honourable Minister. I support you in Phuduhudu. You will see excellent results. It is going to your budget and I know that it was drafted way before be like Borolong as it was before we stopped sourcing you were appointed into that position but I trust you tractors from there. It was a mistake. It should not be more than anything that there will be changes. Thank repeated. We should have a vision that it is where we you Mr Speaker. can achieve these things. MINISTER OF DEFENCE, JUSTICE AND Let me quickly talk about this minor one before my time SECURITY (MR MMUSI): Mr Speaker, let me is up. Honourable Minister, through you Honourable congratulate the Honourable Minister, Dr Matsheka Speaker, I have a concern about our interns. I think there on the successful presentation of his maiden Budget is a lot of abuse against our Interns. No matter what Speech, 2020/21. Mr Speaker, I have for the past you say that we do not have money, you cannot pay an few days listened carefully to the deliberations by Intern who produces results every day the same amount Honourable Members as they raised pertinent policy as a University of Botswana (UB) student or any other issues of national concern such as the transformation

12 Hansard No 196 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

agenda, which seeks to propel our country to a high- Mr Speaker, as I conclude my remarks, I once again income economy. This is a commendable initiative, want to thank the electorates in my Constituency which we must all support. In particular, I wish to Gabane-Mmankgodi, for their trust and confidence in appreciate the Minister of Finance and Economic electing me and the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP). Development for making budget provision for the Gabane-Mmankgodi remains an underdeveloped Mogoditshane-Mmankgodi dual carriageway which constituency, despite its proximity to the capital city of will be constructed during the coming financial year. I Gaborone. I therefore request that may developments in request on behalf of my constituents, consideration in that constituency be expedited, such as internal roads, terms of sequencing of the road construction be such that Gabane to Mmankgodi via Tloaneng road be expedited storm water drainage and land allocation processes as this will ease traffic congestion during construction which are currently very slow and hampering people’s of the dual carriage highway. livelihoods. Even as we speak for these developments, we are asking for quality workmanship of high standards, Mr Speaker, I have noted the intention of Government to not what we are currently encountering in the village of establish a committee which will rationalise parastatals Gabane. There should be value for money invested in for efficiency and more focused development objectives these projects. of our country. I believe that this is commendable and a worthy initiative. As Botswana embarks on its Now on a separate note Mr Speaker, I have noted transformational journey, which will include Foreign misinformation and statements over the past few days Direct Investment (FDI) and Foreign Indirect Investment with respect to the budget allocated to the Ministry (FII), there will be need to improve infrastructure, road of Defence, Justice and Security. I wish to state networks, internet connectivity, electricity and water categorically that the allocated funds will not be used supply for better service delivery. To this prudence, an for aircrafts or jet fighters. efficiency in Government spending is necessary and I am confident that the Minister’s policy direction in this HONOURABLE MEMBERS: … (Applause!)… regard will take us there. MR MMUSI: Mr Speaker, allow me to explain I am also mindful of other socio-economic issues further… currently affecting our country; high unemployment HONOURABLE MEMBERS: … (Murmurs)... particularly among the youth, Gender-Based Violence (GBV), family breakdowns, intrusive crimes et cetera. MR MMUSI: Listen, why are you so unruly, hey! You In this regard, it is my earnest belief that a commitment need psychological help guys. Mr Speaker, I wish to by all political leadership towards implementation of state that the funds allocated for my ministry will not be targeted strategies outlined in the Budget Speech will used to purchase jet fighters … address these concerns. MR SPEAKER: Quorum is dead! Mr Speaker, we should remain mindful that His Excellency the President has continuously travelled the MR MMUSI: Oh! Quorum is dead. Tell those outside length and breadth of this country emphasising the need to come in. Honourable Lucas come inside. I will repeat to combat corruption. This is something that must remain when Honourable Lucas is here! a priority in all our day-to-day dealings as combating corruption is essential for the success of our economy MR MOTSAMAI: On a point of order. Mr Speaker, and achieving our national goals and aspirations. I am Minister is out of order. He cannot say the Honourable satisfied that the objectives of the Budget Speech will Members are unruly in this Honourable House. That is facilitate the fight against corruption. Public funds are a wrong choice of word, he should therefore withdraw. intended for the public and I am committed to ensuring that the fight against corruption is successful in terms of MR SPEAKER: You are correct Honourable Member, law enforcement and adjudication. Honourable Mmusi, retract. MR MMUSI: I withdraw Mr Speaker. Mr Speaker, we are all aware that we as a nation need to catch up with the rest of the world in advancement HONOURABLE MEMBERS: … (Murmurs)... and progress to the Fourth Industrial Revolution. This generally means that technological advancement has to MR MMUSI: … (Laughter!)… There is a saying that, be top notch and up to date. you cannot unring a bell.

Hansard No 196 13 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

HONOURABLE MEMBERS: … (Laughter!)... Member. Honourable Mmusi, it appears as if nowadays the opposition members come to this House to oppose HONOURABLE MEMBERS: … (Murmurs)... anything that the Government is trying to do in trying MR MOATLHODI: On a point of order. Mr Speaker, to upgrade the military. When we talk of buying them you categorically and clearly instructed Honourable resources, all they think about are fighter jets and they Mmusi to retract unparliamentary words that he know they are just doing this deliberately. Do you not just uttered. He is now saying in Setswana “Go boa think that they are showing hatred for the military? monwana, lefoko ga le boe” you cannot unring a bell. He is actually insinuating your instruction sir, he is MR MMUSI: Honourable Member of Parliament, I definitely, for lack of a diplomatic word, he is insulting agree with you totally, these men have a problem with you sir. soldiers. As Government, it is our duty to ensure that we enhance and we keep all our equipment up to standard. HONOURABLE MEMBERS: … (Laughter!)... I will provide full details though my Committee of MR SPEAKER: Order! Order! Honourable Members. Supply speech later during the session. I want to assure Honourable Minister, I think you should be very careful, Batswana that at the Ministry of Defence, Justice and the Setswana adage that you just used means you are Security, things will be done transparently and with reinstating the original language that you used. Just utmost accountability. withdraw and continue with your debate, please. That said Mr Speaker, I am ready to support the MR MMUSI: Thank you Mr Speaker, I withdraw Honourable Minister’s budget presentation for the year my statement, my apology sir. Now on a separate 2020/21 as it is aligned to our Vision 2036. However, note Mr Speaker, I have noted misinformation and I believe that Government should have strong project statements over the past few days with respect to the management and implementation teams, which will budget allocated to the Ministry of Defence, Justice and ensure projects are delivered on time, cost effectively Security. I wish to state categorically that the allocated and with high quality standards. With a strong project funds will not be used for aircrafts or jet fighters. The management and implementation structure in place, terms air assets in the 2020/21 Budget Speech… we will be able to achieve our desired economic transformation and diversification. Mr Speaker, let me MR MANGWEGAPE-HEALY: On a point of once more thank Batswana in general for having given clarification. Thank you Mr Speaker. Honourable His Excellency… Defence Minister, if you are not buying fighter jets and military aircrafts, what are air assets? MR HIKUAMA: Elucidation. Thank you Honourable Speaker, thank you Honourable Minister. I rise to MR MMUSI: Thank you Honourable Member of commend you that you heard what Batswana want and Parliament, you could have waited until I finish and what we are saying. You have heard that we do not want hear what I have to say. The terms air assets in the air jets and jet fighters. I therefore thank you for having 2020/21 Budget Speech appears to be misunderstood, perhaps for political reasons. Let me set the record welcomed this idea and you are channelling the funds to straight that the amount allocated for air assets will not the right direction. Thank you. be used for purchasing any aircrafts, but will instead go MR MMUSI: Honourable MP… towards radar operation systems upgrades, integrated landing systems etcetera, which are also air assets. As MR SPEAKER: Honourable Healy, what are you the Minister responsible for Defence, I will provide full standing up for? details through my Committee of Supply speech later during the session. I want to assure Batswana that at the MR MANGWEGAPE-HEALY: I wanted clarification Ministry of Defence, Justice and Security… sir. Thank you Mr Speaker. Honourable Minister, I hear you saying that in the ministry that you head, you are MINISTER OF YOUTH EMPOWERMENT, going to make sure that things are done properly; there SPORT AND CULTURE DEVELOPMENT (MR is transparency and due process. Do you mean that RAKGARE): On a point of clarification. Thank under your leadership, we will not have these issues we you very much Mr Speaker, I thank you Honourable hear from journalists and the rumours that the military

14 Hansard No 196 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

is being used as a way of siphoning the national funds? and become part of the transformation of our country There was a commotion about buying gripens and there from a poor and dusty agrarian economy, through to an were a lot of allegations as to who the end beneficiaries economy we are today, and the economy we will soon are. become.

MR MMUSI: Thank you Honourable Member. You We thank the leadership of our founding fathers to have heard me very well that there will be no such have shown light on the right path as we support and agendas at Ministry of Defence, Justice and Security encourage the leadership of today, to finish the race anymore. It is over. and transform our economy to a high income one. The budget proposal we are discussing today represents a HONOURABLE MEMBER: … (Inaudible)… new dawn, an era of a shared destiny. MR MMUSI: … (Laughter!)… You heard me very Mr Speaker, the budget proposal seeks to support the well sir. Thank you very much. private sector-led development through the provision of Mr Speaker, let me once more thank Batswana in appropriate infrastructure to enhance efficiency in key general for having given His Excellency the President economic sectors. It is not a secret that our economy is Dr Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, the mandate not churning out jobs at a rate that can absorb all our job seekers. Therefore, it is commendable for Government to lead this country for the next five years. I urge all to place resources strategically where they have the Batswana to continue trusting the Botswana Democratic highest chance to improve efficiency, and create the Party (BDP), as it steers this country towards its high much needed jobs. We each must play our part in helping income status, for the betterment of all Batswana. I the Government to create jobs and better lives for us all. thank you Mr Speaker. Mr Speaker, a quick glance at our economy shows a MINISTER OF TERTIARY EDUCATION, fault line, depicting a thriving urban or city economy, RESEARCH, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (DR while rural economies are lagging behind. Since LETSHOLATHEBE): Honourable Mr speaker, guests independence, we have deliberately taken a posture of in the public gallery, I greet you this afternoon in the taking development to the people and I must add, over mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ. the years, the Government of Botswana has delivered infrastructural development mainly in the development HONOURABLE MEMBERS: Amen. of schools, hospitals, roads, electricity, water supply and the area of communications. DR LETSHOLATHEBE: Thank you Mr Speaker for giving me the opportunity to comment on the Budget Mr Speaker, whether by design or default, it appears Speech. First, let me commend the Minister of Finance that such infrastructural developments are mainly and Economic Development, Honourable Dr Thapelo concentrated in urban areas or cities. In the process, we Matsheka, for your refreshing budget that is centred on have made our villages’ economies unattractive to the providing an opportunity for Batswana to participate young people, as they do not offer them the jobs and the meaningfully in their economy. Indeed Mr Speaker, a lifestyle they need. Budget Speech such as this one, the one we are debating Taking a leave from the Budget Speech, particularly today, gives credence to the saying that, “nothing for the emphasis on the Small Micro Medium Enterprises Batswana, without Batswana,” as we transform our (SMMEs), as the engine of growth coupled with our economy to a high income and inclusive one. approach to have the private sector participate more meaningfully in the inclusive economy, I put it to this Mr Speaker, we are at a time of transformation; a time House that to make our rural areas more economically where there is a defining change in the order of things. sustainable, we must accept that the prevailing We are at a time where each one of us must look deep infrastructure development strategy is failing to within, to set new priorities and goals, a time to imagine facilitate rural economic expansion. limitless possibilities and embark on a journey of self- Mr Speaker, while I will accept that Government works actualisation and gratification. We should consider on a broader national agenda rather than looking at the ourselves fortunate to have lived long enough to witness context of rural life, I also accept that we run a risk of

Hansard No 196 15 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

promoting policies that overlook the realities and needs MR MOATLHODI: he is my brother’s son; my real of our rural economies if we do not unpack and adapt nephew. Now my brother when you say, that this youth our policies to the complexities of our rural economies. should return to their villages, at , how will they manage to stay in BHC houses when they are not Mr Speaker, the transformation as proposed by working my nephew? Honourable Matsheka in his maiden Budget Speech, will not spare any institution or stakeholder. Deliberate DR LETSHOLATHEBE: Thank you, uncle. As efforts will be made to call on stakeholders to partake the environment is conducive for them to start their businesses, the Botswana Government is keen to do that. in the transformation journey, to ensure that even rural They will create jobs for themselves and other youth. economies become part of the transformation to a high income economy. Mr Speaker, I think it is time we start to attract as I have said, our youth back to the villages by providing services In the context of inclusive development, there is no need found in towns, as well as reduce…. I think I have Mr Speaker, for the Botswana Housing Corporation already covered that. We must understand Mr Speaker, (BHC), Water Utilities Corporation (WUC) and the that under a developmental approach; where inequalities Botswana Power Corporation (BPC) to charge the same exist, some form of cushion must be extended to the less tariffs across the country without making an undertaking economically endowed in order to lend them a hand that to contextualise their tariffs and services to the varying will include them in the inclusive economy. It is my degrees of village economic activity and inequalities. belief that the budget proposals we have in front of us Superimposing blanket policies into rural economies today, lays a foundation for an inclusive economy with without giving context to the village economy and life equitable income distribution, and that is the way we will not yield the desired results. can defeat poverty.

HONOURABLE MEMBERS: … (Applause!)… Mr Speaker, I am happy that agriculture is highlighted as one of the activities that can help improve our economy DR LETSHOLATHEBE: I must declare, I am saying and our balance trade. Government will be undertaking this as most of my constituents at Tati East come from a holistic review of our agricultural offering, including this area; the village side. a review of subsidies and programmes with a view of aligning them to the transformation areas. The people of Mr Speaker, I think it is time we start to attract our youth Tati East Mr Speaker, have a fair share of developmental back to the villages by providing the services found in problems. For example, in Patayamatebele, there is abundant land resources and raw water from the towns, as well as reducing the tariffs for the services Dikgatlhong Dam, which are vital resources in in rural areas. For example; BHC has built houses in agricultural production. Access roads, electricity and Tati Siding and I hope the prices for those houses will the lack of telephony services are a huge impediment to not be as prohibitive as those in the major villages and the full actualisation of such resources. towns, and will take into consideration the different village economic complexities. We must understand Mr The other issue, the A1 road that passes through Speaker, that under development… Tsamaya-Tshesebe to Ramokgwebana Border is not helpful to those villages as it bypasses the villages with HONOURABLE MEMBER: Clarification. no access roads from the A1 into those villages, even though the road passes through these villages and really, MR SPEAKER: Honourable Motaosane, count again it is an inconvenience to myself and other constituents. I and go. asked the Minister concerned to consider looking at that inconvenience. MR MOATLHODI: On a point of clarification. Thank you Mr Speaker. I we o ngwana we nkulu wangu anto In Tati East, even though we have lack of land, we shaka ko tswenya o lebeleka nzikuluwangu meaning have vibrant farmers who produce vegetables, chicken, that he is his brother’s son; his nephew and he would maize, sorghum and Zembwe. It is my belief that as the not want to interfere when he debates. Now what I only budget proposal prioritises infrastructure development wanted to know is that; these youth when you say that… to economic sectors, where there is the highest potential to increase productivity and create jobs, Tati East will be HONOURABLE MEMBER: … (Inaudible)… considered as such a strategic place.

16 Hansard No 196 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

Rains came late to the Northern parts of this country, to procure goods, services and develop our people are and some of the farmers from Tati East and other areas stalled because of litigation, largely emanating from have asked me to kindly plead with the Government corruption and maladministration. I call upon those to extend the ploughing season. I hope the Minister of involved in the process of tendering to be diligent in the Agricultural Development and Food Security will look discharge of their duties and to prioritise the needs and into that. aspirations of our people. If newspapers are anything to go by, our Government has lost a lot of funds that HONOURABLE MEMBER: …(Inaudible)… could have even built a small city from scratch in Tati DR LETSHOLATHEBE: Okay! Mr Speaker, the East. I encourage the long arm of the law to relentlessly Government is in an aggressive drive to attract the seek justice for our people by bringing those involved investment as evidenced by many innovative trade to face the music and recover the public funds that were pitches our President, His Excellency Dr Mokgweetsi syphoned out of the public purse. Eric Keabetswe Masisi is doing across the world. The high rate of projects being delayed by contractors Soon, we will host Forbes 30 Under 30, a landmark who are not happy with tenders awarded is really a cause event converging the world’s leading young minds in of concern. The -Mulambakwena road, which Botswana. Mr Speaker, being one of the three countries links my constituents to Masunga and the Francistown- selected for piloting the World Economic Forum (WEF) Matsiloje road are some of those affected by those court Friends of Africa Growth Platform Initiative, it is by cases. This is really inconveniencing us. It is affecting no chance a small feat. All eyes are upon us and our other service delivery in our area. President is doing well in championing investment attraction, and we should not let him down. HONOURABLE MEMBER: …(Inaudible)…

Mr Speaker, our people are the greatest asset we DR LETSHOLATHEBE: …(Laughter!)… As the have. It is the duty of every Motswana to become an Minister of Tertiary Education, Research, Science and “investment ambassador” for the country wherever Technology, I will play my role in improving the quality they travel. I encourage all of us to mention the good of education in our country. I will do my best to direct business climate, steady regulatory framework, good my ministry to implement recommendations that are democratic governance, stable currency, unlimited still lagging behind from policies like the Education opportunities, mining prospects, goods market and and Training Sector Strategic Plan (ETSSP) and other agriculture potential in the small conversations we have policies. The time for implementing those policies is with our friends from all over the world. Together, we overdue, and it is best to implement them now. I have can transform our economy. Our ability to connect with no doubt that this budget proposal is indeed intended the rest of the world will go a long way in ensuring the to help our country transform from middle-income to Government’s effort to attract Foreign Direct Investment high-income. (FDI). I also encourage Batswana to take greater interest in the Presidential briefings, particularly when the HONOURABLE MEMBER: Elucidation. President returns from investment promotion meetings, DR LETSHOLATHEBE: I will yield for you my and ready ourselves for an avalanche of investors soon friend. Mr Speaker, my ministry will engage tertiary to follow. education development players with a view of Mr Speaker, the budget we are debating today, proposes broadening human resource development, to usher in to move Botswana forward by transforming this an era of knowledge-based economy and the Fourth economy, bringing on board a more inclusive economy Industrial Revolution. Indeed, it cannot be business as by fighting corruption, providing quality healthcare usual. The tertiary education providers must embrace the and improving education and training. As a Member of direction of economic development and transformation, Parliament for Tati East Constituency, I will play my role as laid down in the Budget Speech. I will kindly ask in engaging my constituents to embrace the fight against Honourable Members of the 12th Parliament to help corruption, advocate for facilities that can improve our constituents to change attitude towards Technical their health and provide them with quality education. and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). TVET Mr Speaker, corruption is a devil that is regressing is the way to go if we are to move our economy from our developmental agenda. In some instances, tenders middle high to high economy.

Hansard No 196 17 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

Mr Speaker, my ministry was cited on the Budget Mr Speaker, the first quarter employment rate of 20.7 Speech as one sector which Government continues is really worrisome, especially when you compare with to invest heavily on, but the outcomes still remain the unemployment rate of 2016/2017. I implore the 12th unsatisfactory. I picked that up and I promise that we Parliament to help come up with ways of scaling down are working around the clock to improve our services. the growing of this unemployment rate. This Parliament I will share with Parliament more on how we intend to can be helpful by looking at issues in a mature manner, do things better as I present my Committee of Supply not just opposing issues for political gain. from my ministry. As I have said before, my ministry is open for suggestions and constructive criticism geared The days of competing on rhetoric are gone. Let us towards improving our services. There are Setswana work together and improve the lives of Batswana. If you idioms which say “kgetsi ya tsie e kgonwa ke go really follow what Batswana’s hopes are on, one will tshwaraganelwa and moroto wa esi ga o ele.” meaning realise that hope is not only on us as the ruling party, that a task is easy to complete if it is being done by two they have hope on this 12th Parliament. With that said, I people. will encourage us to debate this budget and other issues coming to this Parliament in good faith. Critique where HONOURABLE MEMBER: Mu Ikalanga ke? it is necessary, and give credit where it is due. Meaning what do you say in Ikalanga? Mr Speaker, indeed there is need to look at the state DR LETSHOLATHEBE: Mu Ikalanga nda owned enterprises or parastatals in our country. With a kangangwa! Meaning that he forgot how to say it in high number of parastatals, there is bound to be a lot Ikalanga! of duplication of roles. I suggest we also revisit the HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Laughter!)… way they are being structured. For these parastatals to help us in our transformation, they need to be effective DR LETSHOLATHEBE: …(Laughter!)… Mr and efficient to respond to the needs and aspirations of Speaker, I am aware that the skills, knowledge and our people. Their inefficiencies sometimes add to the competencies that our people gain in tertiary training bureaucracy. We cannot achieve our transformation are very important for any economy to improve. We agenda if things are done the same way we have been need to constantly be in alignment with the needs of the doing them, but expecting a different result. Indeed, I industry when we develop our human resource. Through totally agree with Honourable Matsheka that, “it cannot the Human Resource Development Council (HRDC), be business as usual.” my ministry is on a programme that intends to train and develop the human resource desired by the market. There is need for drastic change, and those who respond positively to change should be encouraged to move with That being said Mr Speaker, my ministry has done times, and those who resist change, be assisted to give well in the development of human capital at a rate way. I call upon Members of the House to come up with far exceeding that of job creation. Sadly, some of the graduates we produce, are just roaming the street. I contributions that will help improve our parastatals. am thinking that maybe it is time we start facilitating When we come up with suggestions to improve our a conducive environment for those who want to work parastatals, let us once more, I say, let us not personalise outside and gain valuable experience to do so. It is time or politicise these suggestions. For example; the funding Mr Speaker, to also review our agreements with those support that some of our parastatal receive, needs to be we sent abroad for studies like the top achievers on the looked into. Some have matured, and now they need to expectation for them to return home after completing their studies. Mr Speaker, it is time to also consider be self-sustained, while some have to start some ways developing our human resources, to export them to to generate income to run their parastatals. This may countries in need because our economy has not reached require some of the policy reviews to allow them to a growth spot that can absorb all our graduates. function in a new way.

Mr Speaker, I feel it is time we encourage regulated Mr Speaker, Tati East is experiencing water shortages. temporary migration to further bolster our human As we debate this budget, one of my major contribution resource development by creating a platform for our will be in the reticulation of water to our people, people to gain enriching experiences, and later to come particularly in the northern part of Tati East. I will wait back home to add value to our economy. for the proposal from the Minister of Land Management,

18 Hansard No 196 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

Water and Sanitation Services, Honourable Kefentse on our recent visit to Selebi Phikwe, we were informed Mzwinila regarding water reticulation to the people about the history of mines; how long the mine has been of northern part of Tati East as he is well aware of this closed, the year it was closed and how we are always situation. told that there are investors, tomorrow the deal is off Mr Speaker, we cannot transform our economy with but we incur even more costs. The costs Government is ailing people, thus, we must transform the state of our going to incur; which Botswana is going to incur if we health care particularly in my area to give our people do not re-open this mine is going to be more than the long and productive lives. I am happy that the Ministry amount we usually hear about; I do not know if it is as of Health and Wellness has a sizeable budget from seen on movies but that huge amount. this budget, and I hope it will assist my colleague and Minister of Health and Wellness, Honourable Dr Kwape My request is that we should request for funds as with ideas on how we can improve the services in our Parliament, approve them so that you go and re-open area. the Selebi Phikwe mine. The people of Selebi Phikwe I am representing together with Honourable Keorapetse Mr Speaker, I conclude by noting that, indeed, we need jobs. We would like that mine to be re-opened and are living in good times. The able leadership of our the economy of the country can improve as we will start President Dr Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, selling minerals from the mine which we witnessed. His Honour the Vice President Honourable Slumber It is disheartening Mr Speaker, to be here when just Tsogwane, and now with Minister Thapelo Matsheka, yesterday one Minister alluded that the value of Pula and the rest of my colleagues in the August House, let Steel is dissipating because there is no budget for the us unleash our full potential to a limitless world where liquidator. The Minister told us that Pula Steel is selling we share a common dream for a better Botswana. As its assets. They run the liquidation and draw salaries Abraham Lincoln said, may I quote, “the best way to from the same budget. I hope the same does not apply predict the future, is to create it.” I am happy that the to the BCL mine. If that is the case, it means we are not budget proposal as laid before us here, presents a good going to benefit anything but rather we will be more in step towards creating a bright future for our generation debts than before. Mr Speaker, I ask that the Minister and generations to come. bring a revised budget which includes the reopening of the mine. We need a revised budget by which Minister Mr Speaker, I thank you once again for allowing my Mmusi should know that we are not backing down. We contributions on the Budget Speech, and I wish the rest of my colleagues well in debating, and finally approving are not backing down and air assets; we are serious the Budget Speech. I thank you Mr Speaker. about them, we do not want them. We do not want you to confuse us with saying, air assets et cetera, we are MR NKAWANA (SELEBI PHIKWE EAST): Let me saying, we do not want those jet fighters. We are going to thank you Mr Speaker for your guidance throughout this say this until the last day when we see your presentation entire time to date. I thank Dr Matsheka. Dr Matsheka showing that those aircrafts are not in the budget. is praised a lot so I am following suit. I would like to praise him because he is a good person; I believe that he Honourable Minister, with all humility, ensure the is. He is a good person in the sense that when we hold a reopening of the mine at Selebi Phikwe. As you have conversation, we are always on the same page. noted, there are shell factories in Selebi Phikwe which Mr Speaker, let me start my debate by saying, it is going are now warehouses and one wonders what happened to to be business as usual if the mines at Selebi Phikwe the machinery which was in Selebi Phikwe during the are not opened. I disagree with the statement “it is not time it was thriving. There was textile machinery, the business as usual,” Government should make a decision Selebi Phikwe residents were working, sewing clothes and take responsibility and talk to Parliament to approve and exporting to developed countries. By then we the funds for Minister of Finance and Economic were developed. At the moment when you go to Selebi Development, to go and re-open the mine. The Selebi Phikwe, you will find that churches are now using those Phikwe mine was closed by the people and it can be re- halls. We have a number of huge halls, which I believe, opened by the people. It was closed by Government and given an opportunity Honourable Reatile might assist, Government can re-open it. I am saying this because I yield.

Hansard No 196 19 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

MR REATILE: On a point of clarification. Thank you teaching aids are not in a good state where we could be Mr Speaker. Let me thank you Honourable Nkawana. saying that the students of Selebi Phikwe pass at a level Do you know that the Government never benefitted that is higher than most schools in Botswana. anything from the thriving textile industry that was in Selebi Phikwe? It was during the Financial Assistance We are saying, since we have proven ourselves, we Policy (FAP) time, money being injected at Topline and ask the Minister of Education not to transfer… where other companies which were in Selebi Phikwe enjoying is Honourable Molao, I cannot see him? If we work a tax holiday. When that period elapsed, they packed with them, it will indicate that indeed we are a nation and left with all the money. Are you aware that it did not that is thirsty to develop Botswana. As you allocate benefit Government? the nation’s resources, remember us and allocate more to education particularly for developments. The funds MR NKAWANA: Thank you for that clarification. That should be allocated to train teachers. We want to upskill is the problem that we are talking about, that Government them every day to meet the current education system. vet the Chinese through Directorate of Intelligence and Security (DIS). Today it is this company, tomorrow Mr Speaker, we also have a problem when it comes we leave that one out and appoint another … We lost to health. Nyangabgwe in Francistown assists us on in Selebi Phikwe yet it was there. They failed to vet referrals. Our neighbours; Bobirwa and Tswapong get if traders were coming with funds or they just came medical assistance from us and we end up having to go with nothing. How can a trader who is supposedly a to Francistown. This is caused by the fact that we do not Foreign Direct Investment (FDI); investor, ask for FAP have a good hospital where our neighbours can access assistance? We are told that he or she is coming with medical attention nearby. According to those in the a lot of funds but he or she asks for our assistance and know, our hospital used to be a certain business person’s thereafter leaves, we are not serious. We are misusing garage. After the contractors who came to establish the nations’ funds. The Government has misused the the mine finished, they gave it to Government. Since nation’s funds and we could have apologised to the then, Government has never used any funds to build nation of Botswana that we were defrauded in Selebi Selebi Phikwe Hospital, we therefore plead Minister Phikwe and Palapye as a country. of Finance, that when allocating money for health, he should include us at Selebi Phikwe because the people of Mr Speaker, if we could agree in this budget and I urge Selebi Phikwe are complaining about health equipment. my colleagues here and those across the aisle to have Let me rush to something dear to my heart; environmental compassion on Selebi Phikwe. Let us unite, agree and issues and in this one, I want to address issues of human/ request Honourable Dr Matsheka to cut and take some wildlife conflict, hunting and others, including anti- funds to reopen the mine. I am praising him this way poaching. Mr Speaker, let me for once congratulate because I know he is listening, he is educated and he is His Excellency President Masisi for realising that it is very able. Nothing can be impossible except that he is in through hunting that first, the economy can grow and a very hard place. Honourable Minister, I trust you and secondly, Batswana can benefit from the use of wildlife I have faith in what I believe you will do. sustainably. Here I am talking about sustainable use. Mr Speaker, hunting is one of the ways that can be used to Mr Speaker, in Selebi Phikwe, despite the reasons prevent or curb poaching. Why am I saying this? A we have been raising of poverty, loss of employment hunter goes deep into the bush and if there is a poacher and dilapidated school buildings, we have a group of in the bush, they will get scared and run away and dedicated teachers. I must thank all the primary, junior abandon the intention. I am talking about hunting this and senior school teachers in Selebi Phikwe for the way way Mr Speaker, and I want to defend and justify that they are doing their job. Our students have performed I mean hunting which benefits the community within exceptionally well. At Botshabelo, our pupils obtained those areas which these animals take their lives, take 100 per cent pass rate, we outdid those at . over the way they live, and over and above, they are the With that said, since we want to sustain it but we lack ones who ensured that these animals are still there. numbers, I implore you to take your children to our schools. I am also asking the Minister of Finance and Mr Speaker, my wish is for us to revive our community Economic Development to assist us. Buildings are trusts, strengthen them, hunting quotas should go to dilapidated, teachers do not have chairs, books, all the them.

20 Hansard No 196 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

MR KEKGONEGILE: Elucidation, Mr Speaker. saying this hunting should be coordinated by them. Thank you Honourable Nkawana. When you talk about My wish is that let us open for hunting that is properly hunting, we can see that now that this year’s hunting managed to all the hunting areas that are available, in quota has not been released. Honourable Minister all the concession areas so that we can reduce the high says we should ask him questions first. When he is in numbers of elephants that are today degrading their Parliament why can he not just say it with ease. We have own environment with a likelihood to destroy their own also been seeing on the Internet the likes of Honourable selves. Hunting is one of the management tools that you Mokaila with big white men, and the youth of Mababe can ever use in this world. Trust, getting them to sign quotas of elephants. We also hear that elephants that are in NG35 which surrounds HONOURABLE MEMBERS: … (Applause!)… Maun, are going to be hunted by people from the south MR NKAWANA: I speak with authority. Those who only, us Maun residents should go and hunt in Seronga. do not know, we have examples of the likes of Tsavo That hunting process, is it the one that you are talking National Park in Kenya which today is a barren land. about saying it benefits the community or what? They had thousands and thousands of elephants and the MR NKAWANA: You got it right my colleague. My argument was that when people said let us reduce the point is that when the hunting quotas are released, they numbers by culling, whatever means or hunting, some should be given to locals or communities, and they people said nature shall take care of itself. Where is should be the ones selling them. nature today? There are no elephants in the Tsavo National Park. HONOURABLE MEMBERS: … (Murmurs)… HONOURABLE MEMBERS: Tell them! MR NKAWANA: There is something that concerns me Mr Speaker and I hope we will not repeat it; it is a MR NKAWANA: I speak here today, speaking of serious crime. It is criminal of a Government that during hunting our animals, which should benefit Batswana, the closed hunting period, at a time when hunting is which should sustain them so that they can protect them. supposed to be stopped, at a time when we know that Did you know that… animals are reproducing, at time that from ancient times, HONOURABLE MEMBER: What language are you we know that from September to February hunting is really speaking sir? not allowed, and we see leaders handing out quotas to hunt from September to January. I hate to say this, but MR NKAWANA: Greek. I believe that was an election campaign. It is criminal; it was a closed season. It is a time when animals at HONOURABLE MEMBERS: … (Laughter!)… large, are given the chance to reproduce, if that is the MR NKAWANA: I am teaching you. I speak Greek correct word. It is not a time when we are supposed to and I learnt it in school. Do you know that when a be chasing them with guns and bullets saying we are hunting and it was not even necessary. Even the offtake Motswana does not see any tangible benefit from of their numbers, did not change the entire population any resource, he/she can undermine it and misuse it? of elephants. Batswana should start benefiting directly from their own resources, including wildlife such as elephants and HONOURABLE MEMBER: Tell them! everything. HONOURABLE MEMBER: Do you know the theory HONOURABLE MEMBERS: … (Applause!)… of elephants? Where are you? MR NKAWANA: I am not praising you. I am saying MR NKAWANA: Mr Speaker, my wish is that as that it is proper to do that, but it has to be done properly. we go on hunting, consideration for the benefits of It should not come during elections. our communities should come first. While we go on hunting, we should look at whether the locals or HONOURABLE MEMBER: Why did you have the communities that are in these areas, there are animals hunting ban? that harass them, they have given those animals a chance to live, and reproduce, they should be the ones MR NKAWANA: It should not come during closed given what I could call first preference. I am even season...

Hansard No 196 21 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

HONOURABLE MEMBER: Ask the Honourable Mr Speaker, I want to stop here. I am stopping here Member behind you, he is the one who closed it. because I want the Minister of Defence, Justice and Security to understand that we are not backing down HONOURABLE MEMBER: Stop provoking T.K... from the issue of air assets. Whether you bring another MR NKAWANA: I am talking to the government, I foreign name, we are not backing down. We shall revolt am not talking to an individual. I am speaking to and if you bring them. I rest my case Mr Speaker. addressing the government. HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)…

HONOURABLE MEMBER: Clarification. MINISTER OF AGRICULTURAL MR NKAWANA: I am yielding for you, not to attack DEVELOPMENT AND FOOD SECURITY (DR DIKOLOTI): Thank you Mr Speaker. I will start T.K. by applauding the minister who is also a Member HONOURABLE MEMBERS: ...(Laughter!)... of Parliament (MP) for Lobatse Dr Matsheka, for his speech. It proved promising with projects that can start MINISTER OF YOUTH EMPOWERMENT, be done in the next ten years. You could hear that it SPORT AND CULTURE DEVELOPMENT (MR answered Honourable Lucas`s concerns, of how we are RAKGARE): Thank you very much Honourable going to get to the knowledge-based economy. I take it Member, I am not attacking anyone. Even though you that this speech talks to Batswana, it covers points which are addressing the government, Honourable Tshekedi we raised when campaigning, points which Batswana supported us on. Minister, I believe that your speech Khama who was the Minister at that time is here. He was anointed by the Holy Spirit. Everything which should come and explain why he did that. There are has God in it always bring positive results, indeed we suspicions that he did that without even consulting the achieve inclusive economy. Cabinet. Minister, I really liked your priorities, more especially MR NKAWANA: Mr Speaker, thank you. Thank you when you said that you will support the export led Honourable Minister, we trained you but it seems like economy. I believe that you cannot talk about an export you are forgetting what we taught you. led growth without mentioning the agricultural sector which associates with Mmathethe-Molapowabojang HONOURABLE MEMBER: He was even a member constituency. Minister, when we campaigned at of your faction... Mmathethe-Molapowabojang, we agreed that we are going to take the agricultural sector serious. We agreed HONOURABLE MEMBERS: ...(Laughter!)... to develop our farming to commercial farming. Minister, HONOURABLE MEMBER: I fired him. on those intentions, we are going to use the Constituency Fund, because we believe that charity begins at home. MR NKAWANA: Mr Speaker, we wish to see the youth If we can fail to use those funds, which every Member venturing into different economic activities. What I of Parliament has a right to divide in order to see what am simply saying is that, we come to the city and tell they can achieve, we cannot come here and say we want the youth to go to the farms. There is this thing called to use broadcasting method instead of row planting. Minister, I believe that one cannot go to South Africa young farmers what have you, parents do not want to from Namibia without passing through Mmathethe- go the farms and they say the youth should go there. I Molapowajang constituency. It is either you pass am coming to the city whilst the youth are at the farm. through Mmathethe or Molapowabojang. I believe that What I am trying to say is, children need to be raised when you are doing these budget plans, more especially by parents, and we should also go to the farms and to use the Trans-Kalahari road, you should not forget do faming with our children as we teach and support to include Mmathethe-Molapowabojang because we believe that we are in a good position to produce farm them Mr Speaker. When the Minister of Finance and products and pair them with the already existing road to Economic Development allocate funds, if there is young be able to feed the nation. farmers or whatever you call it, there should also be old farmers something so that we do not move from the Mr Speaker, the minister said that we are going to farms to the city, they should not push us out by saying evaluate the programmes and see if they contributed to that we have no fresh ideas. improving lives as well as whether they produced things

22 Hansard No 196 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

which can change the lives of Batswana. Minister, change the face of basic education. Do that by sponsoring we are ready for that development at Mmathethe- them. I agree with you that if we can seriously invest Molapowabojang. We have a wide-ranging agricultural in education, starting with you in Parliament we can land and we believe that you should remember us when defeat this monster. Education is a three-legged pot, it you make changes to these programmes. We have requires team efforts. In our team effort to change the expertise, we just need you to assist us so that we can be face of education, we should stop complaining that Dr able to feed the likes of Honourable Motsamai. Matsheka did not allocate enough funds. Let us show Furthermore Mr Speaker, the Minister stressed the point our own initiatives to try and assist students because that we are working hard because we need to build the at the end Honourable Motsamai, children of Ghanzi human capital, which I strongly believe it has to be done South are going to demand answers from you, or maybe and be noticeable at the constituencies. Minister, for us God is going to ask you that as you were leading the to come here and attack each other about things which people of Ghanzi South yet the children still failed, what are needed at our schools even though we are given P10 did you do? You will not have time to say, “Matsheka million every year to go and see what we can do, and said this.” You should be accountable because you are still fail to use it to help students at our constituencies given that responsibility by people of Ghanzi South. it simply shows that we do no not thoroughly go through things which can be manageable, which can Moving on Mr Speaker, the other issue I liked very much change the lives of our children at the constituency. At which seems to be lagging behind and I loved the way the Mmathethe-Molapowabojang constituency we are you excellently presented it, is that we should provide determined to change the face of education in the next appropriate infrastructure. I think the time has now come five years. We ensured that the funds you are going to allocate us should be used to try to address some needs, that sometimes you will find electricity passing through we will come back to you when we have a shortage the farms which can be easily connected for easier food Minister because you will acknowledge our efforts so production in that area. Not only electricity, one of the that we can be able to produce academics. I am tired things which can help us to produce food is roads. I of always being asked whenever I am in Gaborone or believe that since we talk a lot about knowledge-based Parliament where the herd boys/girls are at Mmathethe- economy and that we want to receive different skills, Molapowabojang. I want us to produce academics who there is already evidence and research to construct roads can contribute to how the economy of Botswana is run. which does not require a lot of funds. I believe that in Still on that point Minister, in order to be able to produce those plans, we have already started assisting you with more food, we should inject huge amounts of capital in the P10 million fund that we get and in most cases each research so that as we implement some new programmes constituency thinks of how it can execute the funds on or schemes which can change the way we have been its own, I will be looking at the fact that I have to spend doing things, it should be based on research. The sad fact is that land is not growing but the population is. It the P10 million in Mmathethe-Molapowabojang. For therefore means we have to change the way we have example, if a road such as Jwaneng-Maokane passes been doing things. It is right that we change. through Honourable Kwape and Honourable Reatile’s constituencies, there is nothing stopping us from getting MR MOATLHODI: On a point of clarification Mr together, the three of us can come and request for more Speaker. Thank you Mr Speaker. Thank you sir. Thank funds from you in a quest to construct that road more you Honourable Member of Parliament for Mmathethe- Molapowabojang, Dr Dikoloti, my friend. You were so that I heard you saying you want to enforce Public saying we should not produce herd boys/girls, we Private Partnerships (PPPs), it should produce results. I should produce academics. I could not agree more with believe that we should not be the only ones working as you, taking into account some two weeks ago or so, the team, you should also try it and see how you can assist BGCSE results indicated that 80 per cent of our students because at the end your voters should see a change have categorically failed. How do you reconcile it with under your leadership. your statement? MR RAMOGAPI: On a point of elucidation Mr DR DIKOLOTI: Thank you Honourable Member of Speaker. I applaud you Minister in your debate. You Parliament for Tonota-Mmandunyane. The route to are raising a very good point that if electricity can be change our children’s results is upon you as the Member connected at those farms, Batswana can develop. The of Parliament for Tonota-Mmandunyane. Stand up and same goes for water; it should be connected at the farms

Hansard No 196 23 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

so that people can have water. People are dying because doing something about it. Like you have said Minister, I of thirst. You are making a good point, you should try believe that we will explain further during Committee of to convince them at the Cabinet Honourable. People are Supply to show that it has been developed in such a way complaining about these issues. that will transform the beef sector as a whole. Not only beef but small livestock meat sector as well because we DR DIKOLOTI: Thank you Member of Parliament believe Batswana are doing well there too. Botswana for Palapye. I believe that even in the water issue, the Meat Commission (BMC) is just too important to fail, responsibility lies with you as a Member of Parliament. we cannot allow it because it will collapse even our You will find that at Palapye or at the farms, how many household economies. I believe that one of the things are coming up with ways to store water? You will that we will explain Minister is the issue of the meat realise that in the past, there were many ways which regulator. It is one of the things that have been left we undertook to store water which we could use in behind but we have pushed them and we believe that agriculture. I believe the time has come more especially they will be finalised. We do not want to find ourselves in since we are hit by climate change, so we have to go instances where when we talk about the meat regulator, back or find different ways which we can use to store Honourable Mmolotsi rushes and makes it seem as if water. he is the one who came up with it. Those things have Since you also mentioned the electricity issue, I always been there and we are addressing them, we are believe we have different ways to produce electricity. going to correct them so that Batswana can enjoy their Our country has a lot of sunlight of which we are not benefits of farming. If Motswana sells without getting supposed to wait for Minister Matsheka to allocate paid to come and invest in farming again, it can cripple funds. You have constituency fund which you are him or her. However, we are working hard Minister and allowed to implement some projects which have a huge I implore Honourable Members to go and assist farmers impact rather than broadcasting method of farming in their constituencies to engage in different types of Honourable Gobotswang. farming. I believe that Honourable Gobotswang will not encourage them to practice traditional farming but he HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Murmurs)… will do what is supposed to be done. Some things are a problem … DR DIKOLOTI: Minister Matsheka, I believe that if infrastructure development can be done, it will be ease HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Murmurs)… of doing business because the infrastructure will be in DR DIKOLOTI: As I continue Mr Speaker, the place, we can be able to produce food. The main issue is Minister mentioned something that I really liked. that as Members of Parliament or leadership we have to He talked about the creative industry, like we were focus in reducing imported food. It should be our goal, talking about Botswood at Botswana Democratic Party not only for the New Year it should be our resolution for (Domkrag) when we were in Mochudi. I believe that a decade, that in these years I will be able to produce we are going to live that dream. I believe Honourable this much. Saleshando saw Tinnere-boy and Malagase. I believe I believe that one of the things which are there Minister that is a work in progress, it shows that we welcome and and Members of Parliament is that you will find that recognise our creativity. These are some of the pillars there is research; a lot. There is one company under that we have purposed at Mmathethe-Molapowabojang the Ministry of Agriculture which is National Food that we are going to change the lives of residents with. Technology Research Centre (NAFTEC). You will find I believe that one out of 10 poets in every setting and a lot of research which needs our input as the leadership, there is none from Mmathethe-Molapowabojang, you Members of Parliament to take them and commercialise should know that you are not there yet. It is one of the so that at the end our constituents can be able to have a things that we do better. Not only are we good in poetry, better life or generate their own income. but also in song and all kinds of creativity. Honourable Saleshando can testify, he is our nephew. We are doing Moving on Mr Speaker, the Minister also mentioned exceptionally well when it comes to creativity at that there are parastatals which are performing poorly Mmathethe-Molapowabojang. and he focused mainly on BMC. We agree that BMC has not been performing well for a while but we are HONOURABLE MEMBERS: … (Murmurs)…

24 Hansard No 196 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

DR DIKOLOTI: As I proceed Mr Speaker, Minister from non-communicable diseases. One of our goals I am grateful that in your budget presentation, you is to have morning exercises at our clinics because indicated that you allocated water projects a hefty these are lifestyle diseases. We would also be helping sum. Minister, we have been suffering at Mmathethe- Government to reduce the impacts of spending funds on Molapowabojang because of lack of water. I believe that tablets and so on to treat diseases we could have avoided these funds will assist in increasing canals of pumping by eating right or exercising so that at the end we do not water from up north to this side. You should extend these lose much. canals as far as Lobatse so that water can be pumped to Mmathethe-Molapowabojang and we all get to enjoy HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Murmurs)… it. We believe that where there is water, there is life. I DR DIKOLOTI: As I draw to a conclusion, I have believe that… a request that I would like to make to the Minister of HONOURABLE MEMBER: … (Inaudible)… Local Government and Rural Development Honourable Molale concerning the breadth of Mmathethe- DR DIKOLOTI: Maybe I should allow you to ask Molapowabojang. I have 10 wards, so within these about the P10 million so that I can share with you how 10 wards, four of my wards fall under Goodhope we use to it. Sub-District, five under Kanye District Authority, one under Mabutsane and another village which falls under HONOURABLE MEMBER: He is afraid. Moshupa. That being the case, he could consider having DR GOBOTSWANG: On a point of clarification. Goodhope Sub-District as a fully-fledged district so that Thank you honourable. You have been debating very services may be nearer to be used to transform people’s well and talking about all the things you want to do lives and transform the way we have been running with P10 million. I am surprised that when it comes to things at our constituency. We would manage to feed water, you want the Minister of Finance and Economic the country because when it comes to farming, we do Development to take responsibility. I want to know why our best. you do that yet you said you have P10 million that you want to use to install electricity, build roads, refurbish Lastly, at Mmathethe-Molapowabojang we believe schools and so on. Thank you. that Minister Segokgo will try to connect us with other areas. We wish to be connected with Goodhope-Mabule DR DIKOLOTI: Thank you Honourable Member of via Gathwane-Kgoro road. It is not the only one, we are ‘broadcasting’. Earlier when I talked about broadcasting, going to take services where we believe they are going people asked me if Botswana Television (Btv) was to create immense difference. We have Mmathethe- broadcasting something. I had to explain to them that Bray road, if it can be constructed, it can improve I am talking about broadcasting as a type of planting. transportation of cattle from Kgalagadi to Lobatse. In this P10 million, one of our goals at Mmathethe- BMC will then be resuscitated and have a good number Molapowabojang is to avail water for production. As of cattle. part of this P10 million we have surveyed boreholes, part of it we are going to connect, because we want I believe I have talked at length and lastly Mr Speaker, to increase the uptake of programmes at Mmathethe- I call upon Members of Parliament to be determined, Molapowabojang. We have used part of that money to to continue planting fruit trees. They should lead by survey and avail water for production. We are already example, and also encourage their constituents because prepared at Mmathethe-Molapowabojang. We use the those fruits are consumed at schools. Most of these funds that we are allocated such that even when we fruits… request from the Minister, you would notice that we have a track record that we are doing something with HONOURABLE MEMBER: … (Inaudible)… those funds. DR DIKOLOTI: When planting fruits, you do not Mr Speaker, as I move on, another good piece of broadcast seeds. When planting fruits, they should plant information is that, the Ministry of Health has also been mostly those that are consumed at schools because allocated a sizeable amount. They should also consider in doing that, they will decrease the amount of food us. At Mmathethe-Molapowabojang, we mostly suffer imports. You should change that. Even when children

Hansard No 196 25 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

buy elders a combo, you should tell them to change it, MS MONNAKGOTLA: Let me thank the Honourable and include a fruit tree. This thing starts here, and in the Minister of Education because that is a big leap. Mr end, you will find that everybody will have something Dineo did not nurture Matšha only, we saw him doing to eat. I believe that we have said it Mr Speaker. Thank well in schools like Lotsane, Bonwatlou in Serule and you. at Bakwena Kgari. For that kind of job we are greatly thankful to him, as Botswana. HONOURABLE MEMBERS: … (Applause!)... Getting on to the budget speech, I will start with MS MONNAKGOTLA (KGALAGADI NORTH): those regarding change of technology. Government’s Mr Speaker, I can appreciate you. Let me start by intentions and vow on technology in changing the thanking Honourable President Masisi for appointing economy of Botswana have now been realised. When Honourable Dr Matsheka Minister of Finance. I am you look at Kgalagadi North, technological services thankful because Honourable Minister Matsheka was (fibre optic connection) are now present. This will help an Economics lecturer at University of Botswana a lot in issues of education and health, especially when (UB). He then went to work at Citizen Entrepreneurial you order medicines. Government has done a great job Development Agency (CEDA) focusing on businesses, when it comes to issues of technology. still dealing with finances, doing a great job in Botswana. Even us who own small businesses he I will now talk about unemployment; it is still high nurtured us, taking us from the bottom, and taking us to in Kgalagadi North because we really do not have the top. He ran CEDA well. Thank you Doctor, and what industries or any private companies. We are still lacking you presented before Parliament was a display of your when it comes to those. economics skill. When I get into that of export growth; I request Government to look into the Zutshwa Salt Project so HONOURABLE MEMBER: Procedure Mr Speaker. that it can be independent because it is the one that can MS MONNAKGOTLA: I request… reduce unemployment in Kgalagadi North, and this salt can also be exported to other countries. We should look MR MMOLOTSI: On a point of procedure. Mr into these things, the agriculture sector if they can help Speaker, it seems like now Member of Parliament will us so that Zutshwa Salt Project is operational, so that it stray too much. Now it is like she is reading an obituary can help reduce unemployment. about Honourable Dr Matsheka. Getting into using Government funds appropriately; Mr HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Laughter!)… Speaker, I thank the Honourable Minister of Finance for taking action on how Government Ministries are going MR MMOLOTSI: That may be scary. Can you to use funds. This is going to help a lot in Kgalagadi reprimand her, and tell her to talk about the budget. North because there were projects that had financial HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Laughter!)… constraints but were important to us, and can create a lot of jobs. Thank you Honourable Minister of Finance. MR SPEAKER: Honourable Monnakgotla, continue. Still on that one Honourable Minister, I am requesting HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Laughter!)… for -Hukuntsi-Ncojane road, since it is a short route to Namibia; it can increase tourism, especially MS MONNAKGOTLA: I would like to express my those tourists from Cape Town. And on top of that the gratitude to the Honourable Minister of Education and road goes through Mabuasehube, through villages like his assistant. Kgalagadi North did well at primary, Monong, Xang and Ukhwi. junior and senior secondary. I would also like to thank Mr Dineo for taking Matšha College since he took office Mr Speaker, I will now get to developing skills among in 2017, he found it at 11 per cent pass rate. In 2018 he people. The Honourable Minister was looking at these took it to 20 per cent, in 2019, we can see that we are in things, and this issue is of great importance to the nation position 4, we are on top 4. at large. Since our country has been depending on mineral resources, the Honourable Minister of Finance HONOURABLE MEMBER: …(Applause!)… has realised that it is important to educate people so that

26 Hansard No 196 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

they develop the economy with the knowledge they positively affect the economy of Kgalagadi North as have. It is very important to our country. Let me thank well as the whole country because it will eliminate the the Honourable Minister of Finance for doing that and BMC monopoly, without lowering prices. It will greatly for looking at things like that. help farmers there.

When you get to education, Honourable Minister of Minister, still on the issue of parastatals, we should look Finance, we have shortage of teachers’ accommodation at board members. Sometimes we have board members in Kgalagadi North. Even for students, we still have who are members of multiple boards. That practice is a shortage of hostels because now many students are not good because what one does at Special Economic admitted; those who got grade D, those that were not Zones Authority (SEZA), they will also do it at National budgeted for when doing these hostels and classrooms. Development Bank (NDB), Citizen Entrepreneurial Development Agency (CEDA) and Botswana Honourable Minister of Education, you should also Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA). I look the issue of books because Honourable Minister would like to ask the government that, when one is a of Finance wants to look at educating people so that in Board Member, at least they should be board members future they can develop the economy. That is a great of two boards of parastatals. idea, I also agree with it. I will get in to the other one and say, I understand the I thank Honourable Minister for this idea he came up intentions to make permanent developments... with of Special Economic Zone (SEZ). I think that SEZ should expand its policy, and look at places like MR REATILE: Elucidation. Thank you Mr Speaker. Kgalagadi North to see which infrastructure can be I thank Honourable Monnakgotla because the issue of built, which in future can greatly develop our economy. board members is indeed true, just like she is addressing it. That is the reason why when our parastatals face I will also comment on the review of outlook of our challenges, they all get swept away because the head of economy. I applaud Botswana Democratic Party one parastatal will be the advisor of all other parastatals Government on how it has been leading, considering and it if it is a disaster, it will affect the whole country. that we had recession in 2009 and BDP maintained our On this one, we should not blink when we speak against economy, together with Batswana. The situation was this issue. Namibia recently started, the Minister of tough but we managed to wake up, eat and went to work while our children went to school. I want to applaud Industrialisation, Trade and SME Development made it and tell Batswana to continue holding on like that, it clear that one should only be a member of one in bad or good times, we should continue taking our board. The Honourable Member is handling this issue country forward as the BDP government preaches that, exceptionally well. We should keep deliberating on it “we are taking you forward, we are moving forward’’ until those who care to listen take action on this matter.

HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)… MS MONNAKGOTLA: Thank you Honourable Reatile. Those are brilliant words, the Minister will look HONOURABLE MEMBER: …(Inaudible)… into it.

MS MONNAKGOTLA: I will now get onto HONOURABLE MEMBER: …(Inaudible)… performance of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs). The Minister thoroughly talked about the performance MS MONNAKGOTLA: You are right Honourable. I of State Owned Enterprises. I will mainly focus on understand the intention to urgently make permanent Botswana Meat Commission (BMC) since it is the one developments through Public Private Partnership (PPP). which has an impact on us at Kgalagadi North. This can develop our economy and I encourage private companies to take part in these permanent developments. HONOURABLE MEMBER: …(Inaudible)… It will help to develop our expertise as well as to expand our businesses. MS MONNAKGOTLA: I said that I will comment on the BMC issue since it is the one that affects us at I would like to request the government to look into Kgalagadi North. I will also applaud the government for the use of solar power, as a way to connect power making a decision to privatise BMC…(Laughter!)… more especially at Kgalagadi North since there is no so that it can compete with other abattoirs. This will electricity at those settlements. If we can have solar

Hansard No 196 27 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

power connection, the situation would improve more for Arable Agriculture Development (ISPAAD) and especially at our clinics because we still use torches to Livestock Management and Infrastructure Development attend patients. It can be very helpful. Still on the solar (LIMID). Minister, continue to develop these programs power issue, there are some ladies and gentlemen at because they are very beneficial to us. Kgalagadi North who were sent to India to be trained on how to make solar power. Even today, they are back Mr Speaker, I will talk about the support to transform and they are not doing anything even though funds were the economy of Botswana. In our journey to try and used on their six months training. If we can observe transform Botswana from middle income economy to them practicing this, and go and continue doing that, it high income status, I am happy that Government took can be beneficial to us at Kgalagadi. Citizen Economic Empowerment (CEE) seriously. We warmly receive the CEE policy in Kgalagadi MR MOTAOSANE: Elucidation. Thank you Mr North because we need developments more especially Speaker. I was saying... buildings and roads. We need tourism at Kgalagadi North constituency to create jobs. We need buildings HONOURABLE MEMBER: …(Inaudible)… more especially public servants accommodation. We MR MOTAOSANE: Honourable Motsamai, behave would thank the Government a lot if she can implement yourself. I wanted to add something on your discussion network quickly including roads and buildings more about solar energy. A typical example; as you are especially in our parks and at Mabuasehube where there talking about people who went to India for training, is no network. We do not have network at our parks there is a student at Thamaga who was sent to Finland which can help to increase tourism at Kgalagadi North. by Innovation Hub. He got position number three in the This can also reduce unemployment. whole world after inventing a generator which operates Moving on Mr Speaker to creative arts, Government with solar power. I am trying to say, what we have in realised that creative arts… Botswana, Batswana can manage…you can manage to have that solar energy plant and it can light, more so MR SPEAKER: Honourable Khama, count them first that Kgalagadi has an abundance of sunlight in which before you leave. we can never experience a situation whereby that solar plant does not produce solar power. Your raised a very MS MONNAKGOTLA: I will now talk about creative brilliant idea Honourable. Let us continue to talk to the arts. The Government has recognised different genres government so that they look into the other route of of creative arts in our country. At Kgalagadi North power energy. constituency, there is creative arts such as crafts, traditional dance and choirs. We hope the Government MS MONNAKGOTLA: Thank you Minister... will assist in uplifting our community trusts. Another HONOURABLE MEMBER: …(Inaudible)… thing I would like to comment on even if the Minister of Natural Resources Conservation and Tourism is MS MONNAKGOTLA: …(Laughter)… Honourable not here is that Botswana Tourism Board agreed with Motaosane. Kgalagadi North constituency to build a cultural village HONOURABLE MEMBER: …(Inaudible)… at Phuduhudu village, to date they are still waiting. The budget was already drafted and finalised. The funds MS MONNAKGOTLA: You receive. I will continue were allocated but they are still waiting to date. to comment on training people. The government saw it fit and relevant to try and expand and or increase the Regarding the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Culture Development; funding given to the youth to expertise that people have so as to develop the economy. establish businesses is just too little Minister. They are Government has received development that the country also not trained on businesses when funded. They just can have Labour Market Information System (LMIS), apply for the money and are expected to pay back 50 per which will assist on labour matters in order to focus on cent, the other 50 per cent is grant. I realised that they unemployment issues. do not understand business concepts very well. I do not Moving on, I will take this time and thank the Minister know if the Minister of Youth can work together with of Agricultural Development and Food Security for Local Enterprise Agency (LEA) to train them as they do programmes like Integrated Support Programme not go through LEA.

28 Hansard No 196 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

We welcome the development made by Companies and school, they also came with the parents and they do not Intellectual Property Authority (CIPA) to allow every have homes here. Address this issue because if a child Motswana wherever they are to register their business comes, he/she comes with the parent and they have to online. At Kgalagadi this will reduce our transport costs, ask for accommodation as that child will have come for more especially since youth had to travel from there to dialysis and they undergo the procedure every two to register companies. We welcome it with both hands. three days. Parents have even resigned to come and take care of their children. Minister, this is a very serious I would like to request Special Economic Zones issue which needs to be addressed. I know that you are Authority (SEZA) to go and assess Kgalagadi North. very diligent person. We have those crafts and all those decorations, so if SEZA can assess, we can be able to generate jobs for I request the Minister of Finance and Economic the youth. Development to review National Policy for Rural Development. As there was an initiative of National I will now move on to discuss inclusive social protection. Policy for Rural Development by Former Vice President When there is budget review, I would like to implore Dr Kedikilwe which was implemented by the National Minister Matsheka because at Kgalagadi North there is Development Bank (NDB)… a lot of poverty but the Manifesto of the Government of the Botswana Democratic Party talks about inclusive HONOURABLE MEMBER: …(Inaudible)… economy. However, you will find that there are those excluded from social grants more especially those who MS MONNAKGOTLA: Thank you for that good got donations of houses like two and a half houses so advice sir as it was a very good initiative. whenever social workers visit they decline to include That initiative was good, it developed rural areas as they them in the social grant programme whereas that house did not have to migrate from the rural areas to come to was a donation from Botswana Savings Bank (BSB) look for jobs here. It developed rural areas and youth or Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority were able to get employment without migrating here (BOCRA) or Police. So if we can increase funds and incur accommodation costs. So please reconsider allocated to the social grant programme, it will be better NDB, it was a good initiative. and I would be grateful. Still on that Minister but drawing to a conclusion, I also appreciate Ipelegeng as it reduces unemployment… Kgalagadi North is in dire need of water and the Minister HONOURABLE MEMBER: Nkawana agrees with of Energy, Water Resources is aware. If you can assist you. him by increasing his budget, he can manage to provide us with water in Kgalagadi North. It has been a while MS MONNAKGOTLA: Thank you Honourable since the Kgalagadi North case was before court. The Nkawana if you agree with me. I will proceed with the project was to pump water from Ncojane to Hukuntsi health care issue. Let me boldly thank the Minister of but up to now we still have no water. Right now at Health and Wellness, he is doing a very good job. Hukuntsi-Macheng area, we have no water. For us to MR NKAWANA: Clarification. Let me thank you have water, we use our vehicles to go and draw water at Honourable Reatile’s sister. To say Umbrella for Kang. Minister of Energy, Water Resources, we need to Democratic Change (UDC) agrees with Ipelegeng; no address this issue as soon as possible because residents you are imputing improper motives. I want it to be clear of Kgalagadi have no water. With that, I thank you. even in the Hansard that we disagree. Thank you. ASSISTANT MINISTER OF AGRICULTURAL MS MONNAKGOTLA: I thank the Minister of DEVELOPMENT AND FOOD SECURITY (MS Health and Wellness for heeding our concerns more MANAKE): Thank you Mr Speaker. Mr Speaker, let especially at the clinics and hospitals, he should keep me take this opportunity to congratulate Dr Matsheka up the good work. Minister, we are waiting for X-ray for being the Minister of Finance and Economic machines and kidney dialysis machine. We have Development as it is commonly known. As you all know, children from the constituency, they came here and no my interest is in all 57 constituencies of Botswana when longer attend school. So if there can be this machine at it comes to the issue of agriculture. It is what I am going the constituency, these children can be able to go back to to talk about today.

Hansard No 196 29 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

MR SPEAKER: Honourable Minister, I am quite sure market. That is how our profits should be. That is why you are not going to start Fanakalo. Government took a decision to transform this entity to benefit Motswana accordingly. Mr Speaker, through MS MANAKE: If I fail to speak English, I will speak your permission, can I speak English? Setswana and Sebirwa. Let me start. I was saying I am a Member of Parliament for all the 57 constituencies of HONOURABLE MEMBERS: … (Laughter!)… Botswana when it comes to agriculture. My wish is that, where it is possible to carry out agriculture in Botswana, MR SPEAKER: Minister, I warned you at the we should do so and have it produce good results that beginning that there is no Fanakalo, I do not know what can benefit Batswana. That will be my main objective in language you speak at home. We are new, if you are this budget debate today. going to switch to English, I am going to pin you down to that one and you will not move away. Honourable Members, let me talk about cattle… MS MANAKE: Thank you very much Mr Speaker. Let MR MMOLOTSI: On a point of correction. No, Mr me continue and be a bit fast. As I was saying, BMC is a Speaker, we do not have a Member of Parliament for very important entity in Botswana. The decision that has Agriculture in Parliament but Minister of Agriculture. been taken by Government is to ensure that Batswana No one can claim that he or she is a Member of get the right prices for their cattle and they actually Parliament of Agriculture in all the constituencies of multiply their cattle as it is supposed to be the case. I think you have heard that we are not selling BMC to the Botswana, that is wrong. Chinese, we are not selling it to the Americans, or we MR SPEAKER: Continue Minister. are not privatising it soon.

MS MANAKE: Thank you Mr Speaker. So basically HONOURABLE MEMBER: ...(Inaudible)... you are saying we should not bother coming to your MS MANAKE: No sir, not yet. We are fixing it so that constituency sir since you are fine… it is in a state… Honourable Taolo Lucas, listen. I am going to report at Bobonong that you do not listen in HONOURABLE MEMBER: He does not plant. Parliament. MS MANAKE: He does not plant. Let me move on Mr Speaker, Minister of Finance and Economic and not allow him to take much of my time. Cattle Development, let me just say that I am very happy are important. As we may recall, when we gained with this budget, especially coming from the private independence in 1966, cattle were used to build schools sector and specifically talking on the agricultural like the University of Botswana (UB) and I am sure sector. If you look into how much is actually spent on most of us here managed to go to school because of the sector, it is not that much but we are going to make cattle. I want to talk about the importance of cattle sure that we achieve more with less. We are going to in relation to Botswana Meat Commission (BMC). make sure as you have already alluded, as you have Honourable Members, before I debate, let me clarify already buttressed in your speech, that we have to some allegations made on social media. review or make sure that all the programmes that we have; the Integrated Support Programme for Arable HONOURABLE MEMBER: Social network. Agriculture Development (ISPAAD) and the Livestock Management and Infrastructure Development (LIMID) MS MANAKE: …on social networks. When you go actually are output based and they benefit Batswana. to paragraph 40 page 10 of the Minister of Finance and How are they supposed to benefit them? When we are Economic Development’ speech, it says Government talking about poverty reduction, with the little you have has taken a decision to engage a company that will be given us, these are the programmes which we believe running BMC. We are not selling BMC, and there is we will be able to push poverty eradication without no how we can sell BMC. We understand its relevance leaving anybody behind and making sure that each and to Batswana. Everywhere in Botswana, everyone, every Motswana benefits from the agricultural sector. even if you are poor, you will have a cow at least. We want to improve BMC in such a way that Motswana Natural resources; somebody was talking about it just will benefit accordingly. In Africa; Botswana, Namibia now, Honourable Monnakgotla was talking about the and Swaziland have status of European Union (EU) natural resources and the need to review the National

30 Hansard No 196 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

Policy for Rural Development. Let me assure you HONOURABLE MEMBERS: … (Murmurs)… Honourable Monnakgotla that with this budget or what we are currently doing, we are going to make sure that MS MANAKE: … (Laughter!)…The real reason why we explore all avenues, be it in agriculture and natural we feel it is important to fix BMC or to put it in a status resources, to ensure that they benefit the communities where Batswana will benefit is because we believe that where they are supposed to do. it is that sector that will bring about wealth creation amongst Batswana. Wealth could only be like you Also, this speech spoke about ease of doing business talking about him, he is actually a very wealthy guy due like it alludes in paragraph 54 where he is saying, to cattle production sir. Let me also take an example “Government has initiated the review of the to talk about Botswana University of Agriculture and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)” which is Natural Resources (BUAN). When somebody was paragraph 54 page 13. This is to ensure that people talking about the new look; it will not be business as actually start doing business as fast as they can. usual. We have a new Professor who just came in and Consultation; the other day we actually took out the things are looking very beautiful and we are hoping for a export of live cattle. We have consulted with farmers better future because we are not just going to be talking and they advised us. The opening of the borders has about production. We are talking about the whole value actually made us realise the value of our cattle. Before, chain and also bringing in the technologies that will the prices were very low, but now due to the consultation improve how we do business. that Government has between farmers and different Knowledge-based economy; it is a good thing that I stakeholders, we saw the value of cattle and the interest just spoke about BUAN. We have a lot of research. My growing back. Just a week ago, the last weekend, there Minister just spoke about National Food Technology was an auction in Francistown, the Wayside auction and in the history of Botswana ... Research Centre (NFTRC), regarding some of the innovations and some of the products that we have. We HONOURABLE MEMBER: Clarification. have a lot of research and we are going to ensure that the knowledge actually comes out of that. We are going to MS MANAKE: You did not give me, no! no! you did make sure that opportunities would be drawn after them not. In the history of Botswana, we had a Brahman and shared to the relevant people to enjoy from. bull that was locally produced going at P220 000 and a female cow going at P120, 000. Like I have already said, this budget, as per our view at the ministry, it is not enough but we will utilise what HONOURABLE MEMBERS: … (Applause!)… we have to do everything right. After getting everything MS MANAKE: That basically is indicative that the right in regards to agricultural production, we will be market is now confident that things are coming back and able to request for more, now looking at the fact that we for the better. The Minister of Finance pronounced that are growing and there is progress. Botswana Meat Commission (BMC) will be going into The most important point again that was said by the right hands. Honourable Dr Matsheka was balancing trade that HONOURABLE MEMBER: Clarification, Mr we really need to start substituting the imports with Speaker. production. There is a need to balance trade and that is exactly what we have started to do as the Ministry of MS MANAKE: Who have you yielded to? Let me quote Agriculture. There is a lot of market within the public you; those are your words and that is what you said. Anybody else can ask, I will give them clarification. I sector. There are lots of products that we are coming was still talking about the confidence that farmers are with to ensure that we adhere to the market. Before it getting after the consultations, the opening of borders closes, let me talk about… you have been saying that and realising the true value of the agricultural sector we talk a lot and we do not actually do. Let me give you especially the beef. This is why it was important for us an example with post-harvest losses; the Pandamatenga to ensure that we fix BMC to a point that you get the true silos. The project has already been awarded and people value of your cattle. Even those who do not have cattle will start actually doing that; the construction of the will start being interested in them. I will see Honourable silos. This is reducing post-harvest losses. Do I need to Taolo, after here just to donate a cow to start farming. explain what post-harvest losses are? Sir?

Hansard No 196 31 Thursday 13th February, 2020 APPROPRIATION (2020/2021) BILL, 2020 (NO. 2 OF 2020) Second Reading (Resumed Debate)

HONOURABLE MEMBER: No. ADJOURNMENT

MS MANAKE: You heard right? We are doing and not MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND just saying. They are not stories. Honourable Minister RURAL DEVELOPMENT (MR MOLALE): Mr of Finance, maybe you will talk on our behalf if I am Speaker, I move that this House do now adjourn. unable to talk to Honourable Moagi, to consider us as the farming fraternity, especially agricultural producers, Question put and agreed to. in terms of electricity. The tariffs are a bit high and The Assembly accordingly adjourned at 6:00 p.m. until making it very hard for us farmers in the agricultural Friday 14th February, 2020 at 9:00 a.m. sector to produce. Maybe in the next budget, the tariffs for agricultural producers will actually go a bit down.

MR NKAWANA: Clarification, Mr Speaker. Thank you Madam Minister. I would like to understand whether you are saying that, we will be taking sorghum from Bobonong, and take it to the silos in Panda? Do I hear you well? Thank you.

MS MANAKE: No, Honourable. When you are looking into this budget, it is actually talking about cluster development. We are still going back to Bobonong and make sure that we organise people in a way that we will be able to bring in investors that will build those silos without us having to take it to Pandamatenga. There is a plan in action that will see people actually creating money; benefiting from all the programmes that we have. Do not worry about anything.

The last… it is not the last because I have not finished. I think I still have time. Ministry of Lands; maybe if also they can have a prompt response to enable us to produce food for Botswana. We are for ever fighting for land and we request that when it comes to agricultural production, the response is quicker and people are given access to land which has fertile soils with the potential of underground water. We are also asking and we are also pledging as the Ministry of Agriculture that we are going to give youth platform for innovation; youth to come up with different innovations or creations that will improve the agricultural sector. As part of our mandate, we are going to make sure that youth are given the first priority when it comes to different Information and Communications Technology (ICT), innovations and creations that will solve some of the matters that we have in the sector.

MR SPEAKER: Thank you Honourable Minister. Order! Order! Honourable Members, as it is now 6 o’clock, may I call upon Honourable Minister Molale to move a Motion of adjournment.

MOTION

32 Hansard No 196 HANSARD RECORDERS Mr T. Gaodumelwe, Mr T. Monakwe, Ms T. Kebonang HANSARD REPORTERS Mr M. Buti, Ms N. Selebogo, Ms A. Ramadi, Ms D. Thibedi, Ms G. Baotsi, Ms N. Mokoka, Mr J. Samunzala, Ms Z. Molemi

HANSARD TRANSLATORS Ms B. Ntisetsang, Ms M. Sekao, Ms B. Mosinyi, Ms V. Nkwane, Ms N. Kerobale, Ms K. Alepeng, Ms T. Motsau, Ms O. Phesodi, Mr K. Setswe

HANSARD LAYOUT DESIGNERS Mr B. B. Khumanego, Mr D. T. Batshegi, Mr K. Rebaisakae

Hansard No 196 33