29 Jun 2026

Robelela and Tshokwe residents have called on government to strengthen the Affirmative Action Framework Strategy for indigenous communities in the two villages.

The residents shared their views during a kgotla meeting addressed by an Interministerial Committee from the Ministry of Justice and Correctional Services as part of official consultations on the livelihood issues affecting Basarwa communities.

Tshokwe Village Development Committee chairperson, Mr Othusitse Serolo, appealed for the continued strengthening and effective implementation of the Affirmative Action Framework Strategy.

He said the strategy remained a critical tool for ensuring that remote area communities were mainstreamed into the broader population and that government programmes and policies did not leave them behind.

Mr Serolo said the initiative had enabled many young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to access educational opportunities that were previously beyond their reach. He further noted that some needy families had benefited from government-funded housing programmes, which had given indigenous communities a stronger sense of belonging.

While acknowledging government efforts, he said there was a need to expand and adequately resource the programme so that it could respond to current challenges and benefit more deserving individuals.

“This strategy has had a positive impact, and it is essential to continue reviewing and strengthening its framework to address emerging challenges and fully achieve its objectives.

Ongoing support for indigenous peoples would greatly enhance inclusive development and social equity, while also empowering vulnerable groups to actively participate in the country’s economic growth,” he said.

Another resident, Mr Pinkie Dinamune, expressed concern that indigenous communities continued to face challenges in accessing quality education, employment opportunities and other essential social services.

He said although progress was being made through government interventions, further strengthening of the strategy would ensure that indigenous communities enjoyed equal opportunities.

Mr Leaname Sekai welcomed the introduction of the Sesarwa bulletin on national radio and television channels, describing it as a significant step toward inclusivity and recognition of indigenous voices and perspectives.

He said providing news and information in the native language ensured that indigenous communities remained informed about current affairs affecting their lives.

According to Mr Sekai, the initiative also fostered a sense of belonging and empowerment among indigenous people, enabling them to engage more meaningfully with society and make informed decisions.

Tshokwe and Robelela councillor, Mr Kitso Kamogelo, raised concern over the gradual erosion of indigenous cultural practices in the community and called for government support to help preserve their rich cultural heritage.

He said with adequate support and resources, the community would be better placed to implement strategies aimed at maintaining and celebrating its distinct cultural identity amid the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
Addressing the gathering, Director of the National Planning Committee and Commissioner General, Mr Kabelo Ebineng, said the meeting sought to address critical issues facing indigenous communities.

He highlighted government’s continued commitment to bridging socio-economic disparities and addressing historical inequalities that had affected various groups.

“This is a platform to engage with community members and discuss strategies to enhance the livelihoods of indigenous peoples, fostering a sense of inclusion and empowerment. This is also to ensure that the voices of all community members are heard and that their needs are prioritised in development planning,” he said. ENDS