11 Feb 2018

Government has no plans to increase the rate for compensation of traditional poles (lepako) damaged by wild animals.

Minister of Environment, Natural Resources Conservation and Tourism, Mr Tshekedi Khama said in accordance with the current compensation guidelines of November 1, 2013 the rates for poles were P10 (traditional poles), and that treated gum poles were paid at a market price upon presentation of a quotation from a hardware or any registered supplier.

He said the rate for traditional poles was meant to deter farmers from cutting trees as excessive use of traditional poles could result in deforestation and resultant consequences.

The MP for Maun East, Mr Kostantinos Markus had asked the minister if he would consider increasing compensation for poles damaged by wild animals from P20 to a reasonable amount that could match those sold in shops. Ends