24 Oct 2024

Community Based Organisations (CBOs) are pivotal in driving rural development, subsequently contributing to national economies and bridging the socio-economic gap.

The Minister of Environment and Tourism, Ms Nnaniki Makwinja expressed the sentiments when launching Letlhakeng Nature Reserve, which is owned and managed by Motlhware Community Development Trust on October 23.

Ms Makwinja said CBOs served as catalysts for job creation, facilitating developmental initiatives in rural areas and could relieve government from funding social safety nets.

She underscored the importance of community benefit from sustainable management and use of natural resources, especially in light of the decline in mineral sales and as they faced depletion.

The Minister stated that tourism was poised to become Botswana’s next economic gem.

To maximise the benefits from Letlhakeng Nature Reserve, she urged Motlhware Community Development Trust to focus on value chain development.

She said given its strategic location near populated villages like Molepolole and the capital city, Gaborone, the reserve had better prospects.

Ms Makwinja commended Motlhware Community Development Trust, noting that their efforts would help Botswana achieve 2036 aspirations. She further noted that their project was in line with reset and reclaim agenda.

Kgosi Itsoseng Gaoonwe of Letlhakeng urged unity amid tribal divisions, emphasising the need to embrace the trust’s mission collectively.

He also urged them to draw inspiration from successful entities like Sankuyo Trust.

Motlhware Community Development Trust chairperson, Mr Shadrack Maeletso outlined the trust’s conception dating back to 2002 and subsequent establishment in 2004.

Mr Maeletso said the trust had the potential to generate sustainable employment opportunities and boost the local economy through its diverse wildlife and heritage sites.

He projected a significant economic growth for Letlhakeng in the coming years, saying it could be the richest village in ten years’ time, benefiting communities within a 20km radius.

He said funding of the first phase of the project, mainly fencing of 1 238 hectares, was P1.7 million funded through Constituency Community Project (CCP) fund.

The next stage was funded by the National Environmental Fund with more than P3 million, while the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, through Rural Development Council funded the Trust with more than P900 000 for project implementation.

Mr Maeletso promised that proceeds from the nature reserve would be handed to the Village Development Committee (VDC) to consult the community on how to use the money.

The annual lease fee is P6 million and has already accumulated to P13 million. Mr Maeletso pleaded with the minister to give the trust special dispensation.

A representative from LEA, their technical partner, Mr Godrey Molefe, said the board was inducted in good governance and financial management, including issues of branding and marketing. ENDS