02 Jan 2021

 Chanoga, a village 40 kilometres from Maun, was the place to be this festive season as many people thronged the area for leisure activities such as boat cruising.

Since the reduction of water levels at Thamalakane River, many boat operators have relocated to Chanoga as the area had high levels of water. 

In an interview, the village chief, Kgosi Oateng Setlhodi confirmed that they received a high number of tourists during New Year’s holiday coming from all over the country. 

Some, he said came to appreciate the beauty of the area as well as to explore the river using boats while some wanted to usher in the new year in a quiet and peaceful environment.

Kgosi Setlhodi also noted that some reported that they wanted to reduce the stress level brought about by COVID-19 pandemic.

As village leadership, he said they had rescued boat operators by allowing them to utilise the river following the devastating effects brought by the pandemic.

He said they had learnt that many made a living through transporting tourists who wanted to explore the Okavango Delta using both speed and traditional boats hence they allowed them to relocate as water sources in Maun were low.

He also pointed out that compliance to COVID-19 protocols was the order of the day as they had deployed Red Cross officers to facilitate preventative measures and ensure protocols were not compromised.

Kgosi Setlhodi expressed gratitude that both boat operators and tourists were cooperative as they adhered to health protocols all the time.

“We are happy that people had peaceful stay as there was no unfortunate incident recorded. I believe they had memorable and enjoyable trips,” he added.

He also explained that they encouraged them to obey curfew as they ensured that by 6pm there were no boat movements in to allow people to go back to their destinations safely and on time.

Meanwhile, Chanoga has become a destination of choice as every weekend many people flocked the area for leisure activities.

Even before the outbreak of COVID-19, every New Year holidays, the area used to host big events such as the annual Wine and Whiskey Jamboree, which attracted both local and international tourists.

The colourful event organised by one Mochaena Kepadisa was held at Lek-A- Valley Farm along the river bank and many described it as a fitting event that combined fun and fashion with tourism. 

The event attracted the country’s most fashion-conscious crowds to welcome the New Year in style. This year, the event did not take place because of COVID 19. ENDS