While scientists remain hesitant to confirm its potential demise, citing the need for further studies, local communities point to glaring evidence: the deliberate diversion of water by an operator with properties in the Delta.
The Jao/Boro channel lies between the Thaoge River to the west and the Nqoga/Maunachira/Khwai system to the east. The Thaoge was once a significant distributary, flowing into Lake Ngami and passing through the historic Batawana capitals of Nokaneng and Tsau. It dried up in the 19th century, apparently due to vegetation blockages, redirecting water eastward. This shift is said to have influenced the Batawana capital’s relocation to Maun a strategic location along the Thamalakane fault line, surrounded by the Boro, Boronyane, Thamalakane, Shashe and Boteti Rivers.
