Francistown Mayoress Sylvia Muzila has vowed to transform the old and rugged Francistown Golf Course into a vibrant multi-billion Pula worth Central Business District.
Speaking during the launch of the Bayport Ghetto Carnival on Friday, she revealed that the city council had already found a partner who was willing to service the project with water, electricity and water storm drainage.
Bayport Financial Services, which is one of the leading local micro lenders, has partnered with Francistown City Council (FCC) to launch an annual Ghetto Carnival in an endeavour to breathe life into Francistown.
“I can assure you that talks are already at an advanced stage with our partners in transforming the golf course into a business paradise.
She said the 42 hectares golf course which has been lying idle and notorious for harbouring criminal activities will be turned into a business paradise in an effort to grow the economy of Francistown. Muzila said they had already consulted with members of the public about the project and have since been given the green light.
“An Environmental Impact Assessment has already been conducted. A layout design for the project has already been undertaken. The project will have a state-of-the art mall, hotels, business offices, residential area and we might even extend our civic centre there,” she said.
She also noted that Francistown had since experienced an improvement in developments such as the construction of the Spaghetti Junction which is complete and the upcoming construction of the dual road in Gerald Estates.
Francistown was dealt an economic blow last year when mines in its surrounding closed business. Muzila, however, said the city council was working in vain to try and bring developments to the second city as it has been lagging behind
“We will also be celebrating 120 anniversary for Francistown in existence therefore it is important that we advocate for developments in our city. It is a city of all things precious. There is no one who can come to develop Francistown from outside but ourselves as the residents and the business community here,” she said.
Muzila lauded Bayport Financial Services for launching the Bayport Ghetto Carnival in Francistown, Adding that it will breathe life into the second city and help put it on the world map.
The three-day Bayport Ghetto Carnival will be held in collaboration with Francistown City Council on July 14, 15 and 16.
Giving a brief overview of the Bayport Ghetto Carnival, the event organiser Ngqabutho Khumalo said: “For me personally, today’s event marks the culmination of a long journey that started two years ago. Being a Francistowner I took time to think of an event that will embrace and exhibit our diverse cultures in our community and country at large. I have travelled and attended carnivals in many countries and always wanted to have one in my own country to be specific, Francistown,” he said
He said the Bayport Ghetto Carnival has already been registered under a company name 4d Ghetto Carnival and Events (Pty) Ltd. expects. He added that they have approached a number of sponsors who are already giving positive feedback.
Speaking at the same event, the Executive Chairman at Bayport Financial Services, Father Maphogo said his organisation has a branch here that enjoys support from the people of the city.
“I am a Francistowner; it is only natural to give back to the community that has wholeheartedly accommodated and supported us as a business. Our Corporate Social Responsibility is rich and elaborate and speaks for itself.
“We have built houses for those in need, through the Presidential Housing Appeal, participated in community activities and sponsored prize giving ceremonies for various schools,” he said.
He said Bayport Financial Services operates 14 branches countrywide as part of its efforts to improve services to its clients. He said the certification is done by an international and independent rating agency.
