BACK OFF BONNO HOUSES

The Minister of Water and Human Settlement, Onneetse Ramogapi, has defended the Bonno housing project following social media debate over the structure of the newly-unveiled homes in Mabutsane.Ramogapi says critics are simply bitter because they never thought the government would deliver. Speaking confidently about the project’s progress, Ramogapi revealed that the government plans to launch 61,000 houses in June, to spread development across the country.“The wish is for these houses to be built in each constituency, so that people do not leave their areas in search of opportunities. We want to create jobs closer to where people live,” he said. He pointed out that land boards and councils have been asked to allocate land suitable for development closer to existing infrastructure.According to Ramogapi, 35 of the country’s 61 constituencies have already secured land for construction. He praised land planners and officers in Palapye, including district commissioners, for availing land for Bonno within just two weeks, which he said the previous regime took years to do. Ramogapi dismissed criticism of the house plans that trended online, saying it was a bachelor pad. He said Bonno houses are planned to suit people across all levels.“These homes are not just for public servants, they are for all Batswana,” he said. He said the trending house was built higher for better airflow and cooler indoor temperatures.“The height of the house is deliberate. It helps keep the inside cooler,” he said, adding that changes from the old SHAA design now allow residents to move between rooms without needing to step outside. Ramogapi said Bonno programme allows for variety, and even private investors are welcome to bring their own building plans.“There are three plans to choose from. These are beautiful structures. Those who are making petty statements never believed we would get this far,” he said. He maintained that Bonno is not just about shelter, but also about transforming lives.“The intention is to eradicate poverty, create many jobs, attract foreign investment, and bring many positives within two years,” Ramogapi said.

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BACK OFF BONNO HOUSES