Wayeyi want tribal territories abolished
Boniface Keakabetse | Friday February 10, 2017 11:46
Wayeyi chief Fish Ozoo however passed away before the historic inauguration could take place.
Speaking during burial ceremony in Gumare recently, Tsogwane assured Wayeyi multitudes that his ministry will expedite the recognition of the newly chosen chief as the tribe’s paramount chief. Wayeyi are expected to choose a new chief this week.
However after the finalisation of their chieftaincy, the Wayeyi will confront another issue; the abolition of Batawana tribal territories. Wayeyi elder Simon Bojosi said: “We will not demand a Wayeyi tribal territory. That’s because in our view the district is for all the tribes. It is therefore proper that government dismantle the Batawana tribal territory name and just remain with the name Ngamiland which is all inclusive.”
Another elder, Gilson Saleshando stated that the Tribal Territories Act CAP 32:02 which demarcated territories for the so-called eight major tribes must be scraped off entirely. “Territories like Gammangwato, Ngwaketse, Kgatleng and others must go. They are a result of colonialism and serve no purpose now,” Saleshando stated. He further said the names of the various Land Boards across the country must also be changed from being named after the ‘major’ tribal territories. Meanwhile the chairperson of Ovabanderu Youth Association of Botswana, Carter Hikuama challenged government to walk the talk and promote the interests of all indigenous tribes in Botswana.
Speaking during Ozoo’s funeral, vice president Mokgweetsi Masisi assured that government is determined to recognise all tribes, citing Wayeyi and Basubiya recognition. Hikuama however opined that it is high time government showed its commitment by allowing the establishment of community radio stations and teaching of students in their mother tongue. Hikuama slammed perceptions that there is tribalism in Ngamiland saying such is propaganda. He said all tribes in Ngamiland are united.