02 Aug 2021

Boiteko Trust in Serowe has been commended for efficient utilisation of the P579 000 availed through the National Environment Fund (NEF).

Officially opening a Boiteko Community Park gate structure with entry and exit facilities in the village recently, Minister of Environment, Natural Resources Conservation and Tourism, Ms Philda Kereng said the trust had set a good example of prudent financial management for all current and potential NEF beneficiaries.

Ms Kereng said NEF availed financial resources for the project in order to facilitate entry into the park for environmental education and awareness as well as for procurement of equipment for the park’s restoration and upkeep including a lawn tractor and grass cutter.

Saying it was fitting that the park was developed through NEF support as it was in line with its objectives, Vision 2036 pillar on sustainable environmental and Botswana Economic Recovery and Transformation Plan, Ms Kereng stated that the funding demonstrated government’s commitment towards collaboration with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) on project implementation.

   The park’s objectives, she said, included tree planting promotion, reclamation of eroded areas as well as provision of an attractive recreational space for income generation.

   Minister Kereng said the project,  part of a bigger one involving development of a one-hectare plot co-financed by the trust, was expected to promote environmental education for Serowe communities and those from surrounding areas.

“It is my hope that the gate will enhance the scenic view of the park hence serve as an attraction and marketing facility for Boiteko Community Park,” she said.

Ms Kereng applauded the trust for making provision for disadvantaged members of the community to use the entrance area for income generating activities such as sale of pottery.

She encouraged members of the trust to work together to facilitate activities that supported informal sector growth in Serowe and beyond.

The minister said the park currently employed six permanent and five temporary staff with plans to hire four more full time employees and was therefore contributing to community empowerment through job creation as well as improvement of livelihoods.

Trust chairperson Ms Gothatamang Nthobatsang said its mission was to create a conducive environment for the betterment of the lives of local communities through promotion of development and self-reliance principles.Ends