Angola offers solution to Botswana's elephant woes, but...
Friday, May 31, 2019
Botswana’s elephant population of about 130,000 and above has not only impacted negatively on biodiversity, but also led to higher human animal conflict. This has taken the form of more frequent damage to crops and infrastructure, as well as more injuries and loss of human life.
Last week Masisi lifted the five-year suspension on elephant hunting, basing the decision on an extensive national consultation and engagement with Africa’s biggest elephant states, who also happen to be Botswana’s neighbours.
The Francistown Umbrella Informal Sector chairperson, David Mbulawa, has highlighted this growing concern, revealing that many local traders are using their licences to facilitate the entry of foreign goods into the market at a fee.Fronting undermines the very fabric of our local economy. It allows foreign traders to exploit the system designed to benefit Batswana, using local licences to cross borders and sell goods at prices intended for local...