The latest clash pits Khama’s long-standing conservationist philosophy against government’s increasingly pronounced argument that wildlife can be sustainably utilised to benefit communities. In a strongly worded letter dated September 29, Environment and Tourism Minister, Wynter Mmolotsi told Khama that while he is free to give cattle to his tribe, he had no authority to interfere with government’s decision to offer elephants to people of Serowe District. “Kindly note that Kgosi Khama does not have the authority to reverse or alter any decision made by the government,” Mmolotsi wrote. “Accordingly, while he is at liberty to give cattle to his tribe, he has no authority to alter, reverse, or otherwise interfere with the offer made by the government to the people of Serowe District.” The minister further made it clear that the elephant offer remained on the table, declaring: “We further wish to confirm that the offer of elephants made by the Ministry remains valid and stands as communicated.”
The sharp exchange follows government’s decision to issue complimentary hunting licences for 23 elephants across eight districts as part of Botswana’s 60th Independence celebrations. Khama has opposed the initiative, reportedly arguing that using wildlife as part of national celebrations risks changing how Batswana perceive the country’s natural heritage. “It can contribute to the opinion that wildlife is increasingly being used for consumption through normalising and encouraging hunting instead of protecting a natural resource that promotes tourism which brings many benefits,” Khama previously told the media.
