Groundbreaking Ceremony for A Disability Rehabilitation Centre

Diamond Trading Company Botswana, De Beers Group and Debswana has partnered with Gaborone City Council to fund and construct a Rehabilitation Centre in Block 8 for People living with Disabilities in Gaborone. The project is valued at P8.5 million.

The rehabilitation Centre is anticipated to provide physical therapy, occupational therapy and other specialized services. The Centre will also have a fully equipped gymnasium, swimming pool and other amenities to help people with disabilities lead a healthier and more active lifestyle.

Officiating at the event, Minister of Minerals and Energy Honourable Lefoko Maxwell Moagi stressed that disability rights remain a huge area of concern globally and for Botswana as a country.

Honourable Moagi further said World Health Organizations global report revealed that people with disabilities face challenges such as low life spam, poor health and limitations in everyday functioning than others.

Moreover, Minister Moagi said social and economic exclusion and restricted access to public spaces on the disabled requires Batswana to pause, reflect and work together towards a world that is inclusive, equitable and sustainable for everyone. Member of Parliament for Gaborone North Constituency Honourable Mpho Balopi appreciated DeBeers for the project. MP Balopi also appreciated Gaborone Disabled Persons Society Chairperson Mr Adam Maseko for managing to secure a rehabilitation Centre for people living with disabilities.

MP Balopi added that the Centre will not only bring dignity to people living with disabilities, but further provide conducive and user-friendly services to their plight.

Gaborone City Deputy Mayor, His Worship Oduetse Tautona noted that in 2021, the DeBeers approached the City Mayor to assist Gaborone City Council with any corporate social responsibility. He further stated that through the discussion they were able to identify people with disabilities as they lack resource Center that caters for their needs.

His Worship Tautona commended DeBeers group for positively transforming the lives of people living with disabilities by ensuring they avail services that empower them in many forms. He further said Gaborone City Council strives to deliver government services to the people.

Giving the project overview, Managing director of Diamond Trading Company Botswana, Mr Sedireng Serumula noted that they are committed to uplifting the rights of vulnerable people in the society. Mr Serumula said the groundbreaking ceremony demonstrates support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons living with disabilities.

Furthermore, he stated that the objective of the Center is to provide rehabilitation services for people with disabilities. He said the Centre will be used to provide sporting facilities, physiotherapy, counseling and rehabilitation services for People Living with Disabilities. ‘Furthermore ‘’Furthermore, this Centre will also promote the spirit of inclusion and greatly enhance the quality of life for people living with disabilities”, said Serumula.

In closing, Court President for Block 8 Customary Court Kgosi Kenneth Thari thanked Debswana for their regular support towards them. Kgosi added that having the spirit of unity and consultations in the community can bring change. Kgosi Thari noted that the consultations with different stakeholders in the community paved a way for development. He said with everyone’s input, work becomes easy in the community. Kgosi Thari urged the residents to utilize the resources and take care of any development that takes place in their ward.