23 Apr 2015

Ngamiland District Conservation Committee members have complained that shortage of resources frustrates their efforts to execute their mandate effectively in their areas of jurisdiction.

They cited shortage of transport as a serious challenge that hindered implementation as most of the planned activities were not implemented due to shortage of vehicles in the district. They raised their concerns during a quarterly meeting on performance reports.

The mandate of the committee is to ensure wise utilization of natural resources in the district. The committee also monitors, protect the environment and conserve the natural resources to ensure that they are used in a sustainable manner.

Committee members complained that lack of transport contributes to failure to engage in public education and do follow up on issues.

Presentation of reports revealed that grazing land has improved after the recent showers and livestock are gaining weight.

Members also reported on scarce veldt products and illegal cutting of trees for commercial purpose which has become rampant around the district. They said some government organisations such as schools are at the forefront as they collect fire wood.

Members also welcomed the project dubbed Sustainable Land Management (SLM) project which aims to mainstream rangeland areas of Ngamiland district productive landscapes for improved livelihoods.

They said the project is driving towards addressing the impeding challenges around the district such as lack of lucrative markets to sell livestock, desertification and wild land fires,
Illegal harvesting of veldt products and over exploitation of natural resources.

District coordinator from Department of Forestry and Range Resources, Mr Desmond Serero appreciated challenges faced by the committee such as shortage of transport.

He reiterated that that shortage of transport had hindered implementation of most planned activities and urged members not to sit back but rather continue to execute their mandate with the little resources they have.

Mr Serero said they should continue with the education drive on sustainable utilisation of natural resources at their respective areas. He stressed the need for members to fully understand their roles and functions with a view to protect the legacy left by their forefathers.

He said they should teach the communities to commit themselves and become custodians of their environment and surroundings. He also encouraged them to report any unacceptable behaviour detrimental to the environment.

For his part, Agricultural Resource Board deputy chairperson, Mr John Benn informed the meeting that the concerns raised from the last meeting had been presented to the minister of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism and they were still waiting for the response.

Mr Benn encouraged members to continue sensitising the public about the importance of conservation and guarding against illegal harvesters, adding that the district was fortunate to have abundance of natural resources. ENDS