03 Mar 2015

Nata Development Trust chairman, Mr Kerileng Garebolele has applauded Botswana Tourism Organization(BTO) for assisting them to grow.

Speaking at a handing over of a cheque amounting to P62, 240 by BTO in Nata recently, Mr Garebolele said the money will help in developing the four villages which run the trust.

The cheque was presented as a reward to the trust to thank them for their support and contribution during the Makgadikgadi Epic event.

This event brought thousands of tourists from across the world to Botswana because of its uniqueness. It had activities such as sky diving, quad bike races and boat cruises. The event, he noted, brought unity among people of Nata, Maposa, Manxotae and Sepako.

He said among all people who have been working with them, he wanted to thank the President Lt Gen. Seretse Khama Ian Khama and the Minister of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism, Mr Tshekedi Khama for their contribution and support in organizing the event, which was done in a short space of time.

On other issues Mr Garebolele, said the conflict they had with farmers for grazing land had delayed the election of new board members as they had been with the trust since 2009.

However, he noted that he foresees a brighter future for the trust.

He further highlighted charity events they have done since 2009 as a committee which include donation of a house to the needy family at Maposa village in 2012 and contribution of P10 000 to each of the four member villages to help in other developments.

He explained that all this had promoted their working environment which is Nata Sanctuary.

For her part, Ms Tshoganetso Ponoesele of BTO said that it was a great honor for them to share ideas of building the tourism activities in Botswana. She stated that the tourism department should not be only about wildlife. She said they should continue diversifying the products to boost the economy of the country.

Ms Ponoesele further stated that they will stage another Makgadikgadi Epic event in September this year. She urged all those who want to take part in the event to start preparing as soon as possible. ENDS