Abstract
Botswana launched a Public Works Programme (PWP) – commonly known as Ipelegeng (IP) in 2008 as one, among a myriad of initiatives meant to reduce poverty for sustainable development in marginalized contexts. Research shows that well designed and properly implemented (PWPs) have potential to reduce poverty among the poor by creating the much needed employment opportunities and other forms of sustainable livelihood. This paper assesses the contribution of Ipelegeng towards poverty reduction in Botswana. A nationwide review of Ipelegeng was conducted in 2012. In-depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted at 23 research sites followed by a detailed analysis of data collected. Evidence based on both empirical and documentary analysis suggests that although Ipelegeng has made some contribution to poverty reduction, its successes are far outweighed by its failures. Poor programme designs and flawed implementation has been blamed for Ipelegeng failure to deliver on set objectives. This paper concludes by asserting the need for the development of robust Ipelegeng designs and implementation tools that will ensure the realisation of sustained poverty reduction outcomes.
Highlights
Since independence, the Botswana Government (GoB) has initiated development programmes geared towards reduction of poverty, singling out the poor as a target group
In terms of institutional design and implementation, the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development through the Department of Local Government Development Planning and Community Development provide an oversight over the Ipelegeng programme
Because of excess demand for the programme, the beneficiaries are expected to reapply for work every month to the Village Development Committee (VDC) in case of the rural areas or the Ward Development Committee (WDC) in case of cities and towns
Summary
The Botswana Government (GoB) has initiated development programmes geared towards reduction of poverty, singling out the poor as a target group. The concept of Ipelegeng, which literally means self-reliance, is not new to Botswana It is has been part of Botswana development traditions since the incipience of time. The Ipelegeng initiative acknowledged that, relative to other population groups, the poor were underdeveloped, marginalized and needed special attention in respect of development assistance. To this end, the IP programme sought to respond directly to the problems the poor people in Botswana face as a disadvantaged group with a view to improve their socio-economic wellbeing, livelihoods and quality of life. Other aspects of the IP programme include; engaging beneficiaries in income generating activities, community leadership and active participation in local development projects. Ipelegeng is premised on the spirit of self-help, self-reliance and people centred development, the values which have been an integral part of Botswana society’s culture and traditions since from time immemorial
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