19 Nov 2017

Acting Minister for Presidential Affairs, Governance and Public Administration, Mr Thato Kwerepe  says the purpose of the green shop at Somarelang Tikologo Ecological Park is to encourage the re-use and sale of recyclable products.

Speaking at the Cabinet community service day at Somarelang Tikologo Ecological Park, Mr Kwerepe said the green shop also provided opportunities for urban and rural Batswana to generate income by selling green products and also acted as a source of funding for Somarelang Tikologo’s other environmental initiatives.

“The shop sells products such as jewellery, handbags, hats and herbal teas as well as baskets and natural morula products,” he said.

He noted that Cabinet’s gathering at the park was yet another example of their commitment as Cabinet and officers from Office of the President to undertake projects of direct benefit to those in need.

“Somarelang Tikologo Ecological Park was officially opened in February 27, 2009. The park itself consists of various components; playground for children, the green shop, community organic garden, recycling centre and eco café,” he said.

Mr Kwerepe said however, Cabinet community service day was there to only refurbish two of the components being the playground and garden.

“The purpose of the playground is for families to enjoy quality time in an environmentally friendly place. 

The playground is open to all of us to visit anytime during business hours,” he said.

He indicated that as a way of educating the public and demonstrating how to cultivate organically grown vegetables, Somarelang Tikologo operated an organic garden using no pesticides or artificial fertilizers.

“Plants are fertilized with a natural brew of chicken manure, chilli powder and food remains. Chicken manure helps to make vegetables grow without polluting the groundwater and the chilli powder scares away insects without killing them,” said Mr Kwerepe.

He further said they would plant various seedlings of tomato, spinach, chilli and green pepper.

“This we believe will go a long way in assisting the park on its daily environmental activities,” he added.

Mr Kwerepe thanked Office of the President staff and facilitators in ensuring that Cabinet fulfiled its commitment to making a difference in the lives of fellow citizens.

President Khama along with his Cabinet and  staff from Office of the President planted trees, seedlings and re-painted the playground. Ends