Programme to qualify herd boys
Abang Tapologo | Monday July 17, 2023 06:00


The programme is dedicated to promoting sustainable farming practices and improving the health of communities. H4H has recently launched an initiative project called the Eco Rangers that combines herding with environmental conservation.
Through eco-rangers, H4H has created an initiative whereby farmers will now have to hire headman uplifting their status with qualifications. This comes after a study was carried out in Ngamiland by Heermans reflecting on livestock losses.
In the year prior, nearly 800 cattle where lost in the region, which proved that uncontrolled animal movement is the biggest challenge in communal rangelands. The H4H approach which is currently in full swing has given headmen the opportunity to gain skills, resources and incentives in partnership with Botswana University of Agriculture (BUAN). The University now offers an accredited course with training and a credited course by the Botswana Qualifications Authority (BQA).
Speaking during a workshop ,Information Manager of the Conservation International GCF Project, Dr Okaile Marumo said that this is the key to unlocking livestock value chains. “Farmers to be paid into the Ipelegeng Programme. But this will not be the usual Ipelegeng instead a three-year commitment where the qualified eco-rangers will be paid” he explained.
He highlighted that they will be working along with local government to implement the initiative.
Marumo further outlined that the focus is not just on eco-rangers but also adequate vaccination mobiles and predator proof kraals. “The plan is for it to be a collaborative effort to buy bomas ( fenced shelter kraals) where communities can quarantine livestock in compliance with foot and mouth disease areas,” he added.
He said that this will promote enterprise development but also improve husbandry and surveillance along with rangeland restoration.
“The CI Botswana GCF project is funded by the Greden Climate fund with $96 million dollars,” said Communication Manager, Lame Ramokete. She said the project will bring transformation and innovation but also hopes to empower women and youth to join in on eco-rangers courses.