30 Apr 2013

Principal Wildlife Warden from the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP), Mr Khumiso Rathipana has commended the Okavango Kopano Mokoro Community Trust (OKMCT) for prudence and good management of their organisation.

Speaking during a two-day Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Boro, north east of Maun, on Friday, Mr Rathipana said the trust has done quite a tremendous work to improve on issues of reporting, governance and management. 

He appreciated the developments and services offered by the trust, saying it is for the good will of their communities. 

Mr Rathipana also appreciated the trust’s 2012 financial report, saying it is clear for all members to understand.

The official, who is also a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) member promised that his office will look into the issue of disbursement of funds after some members of the trust complained about delays that affect service delivery.

On challenges faced by the trust, OKMCT chairperson Mr Lemogang Marea revealed that shortage of transport is a serious concern, with only two vehicles on the road.

He said floods also affected their operations, which forced them to construct six wooden bridges at huge costs. 

“We cannot make any permanent developments in our areas because they are not gazetted,” he revealed.

Participants complained about delays in the disbursement of funds by TAC, saying they affect service delivery.

For his part, the acting Trust Manager Mr Seikaneng Moipedi, said the trust is experiencing growth every year, with an increase in revenue for the three consecutive years.

“If we could improve our services at all mokoro stations we might earn more income from gate fees” he noted.

He said last year they received 9755 tourists for mokoro excursions as compared to 7134 in 2011, adding that the trend indicates a growth of international tourists and sales increase.

The manager further said that in the new management plan, a portion of the concession will be reserved for temporary camping and speed boat cruises. He said fishing sport will be introduced to increase income.

He however expressed concern over tour operators who use speed boats to cross without their permission into the concession.

Mr Moipedi stated that an increase in revenue every year indicates that the trust has the potential for sustainability.

Furthermore he revealed that the trust has created employment for 29 people, while its joint venture partners have created 224 jobs, mainly for the residents of NG 32.

“We have a horticultural project, which we intend to start in Xuoxao very soon to diversify our income” he said. Mr Moipedi confirmed that the audit report for the financial year 2012/13 is now completed. ENDS