10 Feb 2014

An incident that took place in Maun over the independence holidays last year where a mother was swallowed up by crocodiles whilst swimming in front of her children, has led to some Batswana forming up a wildlife victims organisation.

The establishment dubbed The Organisation of Wildlife Victims and Welfare (OWVW) was introduced to the public at a conference held in Gaborone on February 7.

Formed in December and registered with the Registrar of Societies as a non-government organisation, OWVW came as a wake-up call from the incident that left traumatised children who witnessed it all. It goes by the motto: Love life as you love animals.

Its chairperson, Mr Olefile Tladi said at the conference that such incidents left people traumatised and affected psychologically.

Mr Tladi said their organisation was meant to heal the wounds of those affected and to be the leading in taking care and provide welfare to victims of wild animals in Botswana.

He said they also aimed to sensitise the public about the dangers of wildlife and to avoid any future incidents by raising awareness and educating on game reserve warning signs.

Mr Tladi added that they also intended to provide counselling to surviving victims and their dependants, provide material or monetary assistance to bereaved persons.

“Sensitising the public about the importance of obeying all signs while in tourism areas and to preserve tourism dignity. ENDS