The Botswana government has temporarily adjusted working hours for public servants in response to widespread flooding that has disrupted daily life across the country.
From Thursday to Friday government employees will report to work at 9:00 am (0700 GMT) instead of the usual 7:30am and will leave at 3:30pm rather than 4:30pm.
The adjustment, announced by the Directorate of Public Service Management (DPSM), aims to mitigate the impact of inclement weather on public servants’ commutes.
“The decision is based on the current weather conditions,” DPSM spokesperson Chandapiwa Maele said in a statement late Wednesday.
The decision follows days of relentless heavy rains that have caused extensive flooding in the capital Gaborone, and other regions.
Roads have been submerged, making travel hazardous, while several shopping centres and residential areas have suffered severe water damage.
Authorities have struggled to manage the situation as floodwaters have rendered multiple roads impassable, raising concerns about accessibility and public safety.
Residents in low-lying areas have been particularly affected, with some homes completely inundated.
Despite the adjusted hours, Maele noted that government ministries must ensure essential services continue without major disruptions.
“Accounting officers should ensure that skeletal staff remain in the afternoon so that there is minimal disruption to service delivery.”
The government has urged residents to exercise caution when traveling and to stay updated on weather advisories as more rainfall is expected in the coming days.
JN/APA