03 Jun 2013

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) representative has applauded Minister of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism (MEWT), Mr Tshekedi Khama for his contribution to the cultural resources economic development.

Mr Damir Dijakovic, who was speaking at the Tsodilo craft centre and campsite opening recently said he was impressed by how different stakeholders such as government departments, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), parastatals and other stakeholders had partnered for a successful project like Tsodilo.

That, Mr Dijakovic said, showed that government valued the development of its local communities. “This is such a unique experience for me and I would like the minister to share this awesome experience with the rest of the world,” he said.

One of the stakeholders in the project, Diamond Trust’s representative, Ms Esther Kanaimba-Senai said there was need for such a project in order to market Tsodilo as one of Botswana’s tourism destinations.

Ms Kanaimba-Senai was also optimistic that campsites and projects, like the impending state of the art mid-market and upmarket lodge, would attract many tourists to Tsodilo. She commended government departments and other stakeholders for the project’s success.

She added that the project would benefit the Tsodilo community and thus urged them to work together for its success. Letloa Trust project executor, Mr Kaelo Mokomo said he was hopeful that the project would be a phenomenal example to the rest of the world.

However, Mr Mokomo warned the Tsodilo community, especially the youth against challenges such as crime and alcohol consumption. Thus, he urged them to desist from such ills in order to safeguard the beautiful rock paintings and Tsodilo resources. ENDS