06 Feb 2017

Minister of Nationality, Immigration and Gender Affairs, Mr Edwin Batshu has told Ntlo Ya Dikgosi that the Inter-Ministerial Committee that works out the modalities and logistics pertaining to the relocation of the Ovambaderu and Ovaherero communities has been established by the Namibian government.

Answering Kgosi Tjazako Munduu of Ngami region on Thursday, he acknowledged that communication between the two governments of Botswana and Namibia has taken a bit long.

Mr Batshu also said Namibia has requested for the updated list of the people who wish to relocate to Namibia and the number of their livestock.

“This information is still being compiled, after which further engagement with the government of Namibia will be made,” he said.

Kgosi Munduu had asked the minister to update Ntlo Ya Dikgosi on the progress made regarding the relocation of the two communities, following consultations with Bothatogo and Bodibeng villages. He had also asked whether they will relocate with their cattle.

Minister Batshu also informed Ntlo Ya Dikgosi that his ministry reduced the size of stamps on passports, following the feedback received from several Batswana regarding the size of stamps for passports.

He said procurement process was currently ongoing and that upon completion, the stamps will be dispatched to the different ports of entry to be used. ENDS