04 Feb 2024

The Ministry of Lands and Water Affairs has been inundated with queries concerning the revised Tribal Land Act Regulations 2022 fee schedule. 

In an effort to enhance collaboration with key stakeholders, Ngwaketse Land Board recently held a meeting with stakeholder to consult  on issues pertaining to the fee schedule. 

The land board secretary, Mr Godiramang Moepeng, said the purpose of the meeting was to get ideas pertaining to the fee schedule from the different stakeholders. 

Mr Moepeng said issues raised included exorbitant charges and their implementation. 

He pointed out that the ministry had  requested land boards to seek stakeholder input to come up with fees, which would be favourable to all. 

He explained that when making comments and suggestions, it was important that the ministry also considered instituting different rates depending on the locality; together with inflationary adjustments and policy objectives for the year. 

One of the key issues that was discussed in length was the transfer levy of P3 000. 

Mr Moepeng said the introduction of the fee was to increase revenue for land boards as they often undertake site visits for allocations. 

The stakeholders decried the fee increase and requested that it at least be reduced to P1 000 because most Batswana could not afford P3 000.

They indicated that foreigners were now acquiring the land from Batswana because they could afford to pay the high levy. 

Mr Moepeng appreciated  the support of stakeholders, emphasising the importance of closer working relations between the land board and the stakeholders. ENDS