24 Oct 2016

A United States of America artist, Ms Anne London has given animal paintings to President Lt Gen. Dr Seretse Khama Ian Khama and Mr Tshekedi Khama as acknowledgement for their role in conserving wildlife in Botswana.
Ms London explained that she fell in love with the unique wildlife of Botswana during her 20 years of regular tourism activities here.
“To me, one of the most powerful sounds on the planet is the deep roar of a lion in the twilight. I feel privileged to hear it whenever I return to the bush in Botswana,” she said as she handed the paintings to Mr Thato Kwerepe, Assistant Minister for Presidential Affairs, Governance and Public Administration, on October 21 at Office of the President.
She said the courage by President Khama to stand against outside forces and antiquated hunting policies has had a positive effect in wildlife conservation: “We have witnessed, firsthand, the hard-work of your citizens who sincerely care about their wildlife heritage.
I have seen the rewards of their hope and dedication to protecting your country’s wild animals, strengthened by their faith and confidence in your leadership.”
Ms London said the paintings were a pledge of international support and admiration to President Khama and the government of Botswana. Mr Kwerepe thanked the artist for her gesture saying it would promote further tourism industry in Botswana.
“We are a country which is well known for its tourism and wildlife heritage.
We thank them for recognisng the contribution to wildlife conservation made by our President Dr Khama and Mr Tshekedi Khama by making these paintings of lions,” Mr Kwerepe said.
He explained that government will continue intensifying efforts to conserve wild animals because tourism is a major contributor to the economy. ENDS