The long-awaited Botswana Police Service air hangar at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport is expected to be handed over in June after more than five years since construction began.
Work on the facility officially started in January 2021 and was originally slated for completion within 52 weeks, by January 2022. However, the project faced multiple setbacks and is currently 97 per cent complete.
The project includes a command block, aircraft maintenance facilities and other ancillary structures. Total expenditure to date stands at P46,247,066. The initial budget was P45,455,130, while the final estimated cost is P54,916,629, an increase of about 29 per cent.
Botswana Housing Corporation Chief Operations Officer Professor Selinah Busang said the project was commissioned during the COVID-19 era, which contributed substantially to the delay.
“Cash flows, procurement challenges, material cost escalations and general logistical challenges experienced during the COVID-19 era are some of the factors significantly attributed to the overall substantial delay of the project,” Prof Busang said during a tour of the facility.
She added that logistical hurdles in securing travel permits and visas for skilled professionals, including international consultants, also slowed progress. Worker absenteeism due to sick leave further contributed to loss of production time.
Minister for State President, Defence and Security, Mr Moeti Mohwasa said government was intensifying project monitoring to ensure timely delivery of national investments.
“These tours are one of the few approaches we use to push for the timely delivery of government projects. Despite the challenges experienced causing the delay of this particular project, this oversight strategy will ensure future projects are delivered on time,” Mr Mohwasa said.
Once complete, the more than 2 400 square metre structure, plus ancillary buildings measuring around 230 square metre, will have capacity to house about 20 helicopters.
Besides the clear-span structure designed for maximum flexibility in maneuvering aircraft, the facility includes offices, workshops, parts storage, locker rooms and a spacious gym.
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