Ungazetted settlements deserve basic services

Settlements that are not gazetted should not be denied basic services such as clean water, electricity and roads on the basis that they are not officially recognised. What matters, according to Maun West MP, Mr Caterpillar Hikuama, is the survival of those who live in those areas. Mr Hikuama, who was addressing a kgotla meeting Tuesday in Xhoo settlement, said without services, such places would not develop.

Xhoo, an ungazetted settlement located just a stone’s throw away from Maun and is without some basic amenities which if availed, Mr Hikuama said would allow communities to thrive and contribute to the country’s economy development. Kgosi Kgakgamatso Masheto of Xhoo said lack of clean water and passable roads was a struggle. He said residents ended up moving to places where those are available.

Ms Keitumetse Samorwa, a resident of Xhoo, said daily life had become a constant challenge. “We want to stay and raise our children here but without clean water and electricity, survival becomes a burden,” said Ms Keitumetse Samorwa, a resident of Xhoo. For Xhoo and other un-gazetted settlements, development must follow people, because they allow them to explore opportunities and afford them to live a dignified life.BOPA