11 Mar 2025

 Kgosi Khama IV of Bangwato has officially appointed a new board of trustees for the Ngwato Development Trust, marking a significant change after the previous board had served since 2008 without the expected biannual rotation.

The new appointments, include two consultants, Mr Kamogelo Mogale and Mr Godiretse Khumiso, mining surveyor Mr Malebela Oagile, accountant Mr Boago Matheatau, as well as legal advisors Ms Angelinah Seanokeng and Mr Tapiwa Abel.

In a community meeting held recently in Serowe, Kgosi Khama IV expressed confidence in the newly appointed trustees, noting that the outgoing board, led by Mr Keolopile Gaborone, had successfully fulfilled a substantial part of their mandate. Mr Gaborone was re-elected by community members to continue in his general manager role.

“The term that they navigated was longer than anticipated, but I believe it was not without its challenges,” Kgosi Khama  IV said.

He urged the incoming board to commit themselves fully to their duties.

In addition to the board appointments, Kgosi Khama  IV committed to promoting arts, culture, and natural heritage within his jurisdiction. 

He has initiated the formation of several committees to support these efforts, which will focus on the preservation and promotion of historical buildings, significant sites, and natural heritage.

Kgosi Khama IV called upon relevant authorities to compile an inventory of all monumental and heritage sites in the area and proposed the construction of roads to enhance accessibility to these locations. 

He emphasised his role as a custodian of culture and arts, pledging his support for the growth of this sector, which he believed could contribute significantly to economic diversification alongside the country’s diamond industry.

“Batswana are inherently creative due to the vast array of natural heritage around us,” he stated, challenging local artists to leverage their talents for economic growth. 

He underscored the potential of the arts as a source of employment, encouraging individuals to earn a living from their creative pursuits.

The committees will cover a range of areas, including culture and heritage, tourism, agriculture, dignity, media, infrastructure, and youth development and ports.

In his remarks, outgoing chairperson Mr. Charles Kabelo highlighted the trust’s commitment to community investment, mentioning the donation of chairs to several wards in Serowe as part of their efforts to give back. Since its inception in 2008, the Ngwato Development Trust has focused on safeguarding and generating income from community-owned properties, including Leupane Ranch, Palapye Warehouse, Serowe Show Grounds, Radihemelo, and Serowe Dam.

Mr Kabelo also pointed out the trust’s efforts to assist the less fortunate, including those who do not qualify for social services, emphasizing their dedication to long-term community benefits. ENDS