Botswana’s Ipelegeng Programme Design and Implementation: Reduction or Perpetuation/Entrenchment of Poverty?

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.