Barclays invests over P800,000 in youth empowerment

| Monday June 9, 2014 07:45

 

 

According to Barclays Managing Director, Reinette van der Merwe, the partnership seeks to mobilise young people and train them to be able to secure work or start their own enterprises as well as protect their natural resources from which they can derive economic benefits in a sustainable and responsible manner.

“I am very excited about the project and the opportunities it presents to young people in these areas. As a responsible corporate citizen, our involvement in protecting the natural resources of Botswana and youth empowerment to become economically active is critical.  We remain committed to the holistic development of Botswana and our people,” she stated.

Youth in Boteti, Ngamiland, Okavango and Chobe districts will be equipped with enterprise, employability, money management and environmental conservation skills. Kalahari Conservation Society CEO Felix Monggae is thrilled with the opportunity presented by Barclays.

“The support from Barclays allows KCS to continue our work in ensuring the livelihoods of our people benefit at the same time as our environment. Botswana is uniquely placed to make sure that both can live harmoniously side by side,” Mr. Monggae said.

The project, which commences in July this year, will see KCS work closely with community trusts in the areas for youth mobilization, and ensure its effective implementation. It will run for 12 months.

Other partners involved in the project include the Khama Rhino Sanctuary and the Botswana Wildlife Training Institute where youth will attend guiding classes.