ORI slams govt for freezing research permits

In a press release, the Ministry announced that issuing of new permits for environment research, filmmaking and photography are suspended with immediate effect until further notice. This applies to the Okavango Delta. The suspension applies to renewal of any existing or expired permits. The release says Batswana are not involved in independent research projects or films. It further says researchers and filmmakers do not account for their movements and that there is lack of compliance with statutory requirements to deposit research outputs and filming products.

The release further accused some researchers for lack of adherence to proper animal care and welfare protocols in particular fitting of tracking collars.