In a significant move aimed at improving infrastructure delivery, the Botswana government has announced the suspension of 70 infrastructure projects under the Development Manager (DM) Model for a comprehensive review. The suspended projects include critical infrastructure such as roads, hospitals, schools, and stormwater drainage systems.
This decision, disclosed by Minister of Transport Noah Salakae during a parliamentary session, reflects growing concerns over the model’s effectiveness and implementation.
Why the Suspension?
The government introduced the DM Model in 2022 to oversee projects worth BWP 13.2 billion under the second Transitional National Development Plan (TNDP). The model aimed to enhance project delivery by assigning Development Managers (DMs) to oversee and coordinate infrastructure projects. However, persistent issues such as cost overruns, delays, and questions about the model’s legal framework have triggered public and parliamentary scrutiny.
Salakae revealed that a Special Task Team would conduct a thorough review of the DM Model over the next 40 days. The review will address:
• The setup and legal structure of the DM Model.
• The rationale behind its implementation.
• The mandate of the Development Managers and their compliance with relevant laws and policies.
Ongoing Projects Under Review
While the government has paused 70 projects for review, an additional 78 ongoing projects under the DM Model will continue. However, these projects are not exempt from scrutiny. The government aims to avoid potential legal and financial complications while ensuring the review’s findings inform future improvements.
Public Concerns and Objectives
The DM Model was envisioned as a solution to Botswana’s infrastructure challenges, but inefficiencies and setbacks have sparked public concern. Issues such as rising project costs and delays have drawn criticism, prompting the government to act.
Minister Salakae emphasized that the review’s findings would guide reforms to resolve these inefficiencies and enhance project delivery. “The review is a necessary step to ensure accountability, legal compliance, and the effective use of public resources,” he noted.
A Focus on Transparency and Accountability
The suspension of these projects underscores the government’s commitment to addressing inefficiencies in infrastructure development. By scrutinizing the DM Model, the administration aims to ensure that future projects are implemented more effectively and transparently, ultimately benefiting the public.
Next Steps
Over the next 40 days, the Special Task Team will evaluate the DM Model and provide recommendations to the government. The findings are expected to shape the future of infrastructure development under the TNDP, ensuring that public resources are used efficiently and that the country’s development goals are met.
While the suspension may delay some projects, it highlights the government’s focus on accountability, efficiency, and the long-term benefits of better infrastructure delivery. Stakeholders and the public eagerly await the review’s outcomes and the subsequent measures to address the identified challenges.
