02 Dec 2013

Dithopo ranch is fully developed and operational as a demonstration ranch, Environment, Wildlife and Tourism minister, Mr Tshekedi Khama has said.

Responding to a question in Parliament from Kweneng East MP, Maj. Gen. Moeng Pheto, Mr Khama said the developments within the ranch included; a game proof fence around the facility, a wildlife holding facility (kraals), two boreholes and watering points, staff accommodation.

In addition, Mr Khama said the developments within the ranch included; an office block as well as stock which included over 200 eland, over 200 gemsbok, over 60 red hartebeest as well as other smaller game such as springbok, duiker, steenbok and hyena.

Most of the infrastructure at the Dithopo, he said “is old and requires major refurbishment, an issue that will be taken on board by the management plan currently being developed through Botswana Tourism Organisation.”

He said his ministry was currently exploring possibilities of transforming all the educational parks and Dithopo ranch into profitable entities. He said his ministry had engaged consultants to develop a management plan for Dithopo ranch.

However, he said the initial submission was not as they had expected and they were also looking at alternative options. Once the management plans had been completed, and management options presented, Mr Khama said the ministry would decide on the way forward in consultation with all the stakeholders.

“As the management plan has not been finalised, I am unable at this material time to determine whether a private investor will be engaged or not, but it remains an option for now,” he added.

Kweneng East MP wanted to know what had been done to develop Dithopo ranch and whether environment, wildlife and tourism minister would consider encouraging investors to venture into ecotourism in the ranch as an option. ENDS