The Acting President and Minister of Finance Ndaba Gaolathe has emphasised the need for citizen-centred and responsible governance focused on delivering high-impact results.
Speaking yesterday at the opening session of the Local Government Symposium held in Gaborone, Gaolathe outlined a vision where local governance is deeply connected to the needs and aspirations of the people it serves.
“A successful local governance system means local people resonate with government strategies. It must be driven by available data and prioritise service delivery agility,” Gaolathe said. He urged local authorities to place citizens at the forefront of governance by focusing on personal development and education.
Gaolathe further highlighted that a people-oriented government paves the way for easier achievement of community development goals. He pointed to the Botswana Economic Transformation Programme (BETP) as a key strategic framework guiding Botswana’s journey toward high-income status. BETP aims to stimulate local economies through increased export earnings, economic diversification, and digital commerce advancement.
The Acting President stressed the importance of rural development in unlocking Botswana’s full economic potential. Initiatives like rural digitalisation and the establishment of SmartBotswana hubs are integral to the planning and implementation of innovative local government projects. These efforts, Gaolathe noted, enhance performance, accountability, and financial independence—critical components for efficient service delivery.
While acknowledging the current fiscal challenges the country faces, Gaolathe praised the local government ministry for its commitment to fostering economic growth and improving living standards across Botswana.
The symposium, bringing together stakeholders from various sectors, is seen as a vital platform for strengthening local governance systems and aligning them with national development objectives.
