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Human stories of the Okavango, storytellers wanted

On set: The author, Thalefang Charles, 
caught during production of the film PIC: BOSE BONDA
On set: The author, Thalefang Charles, caught during production of the film PIC: BOSE BONDA

Last year, I earned the title “National Geographic Explorer,” but I’ve mostly been exploring my own backyard. And a question I always ask is, “why do people live here?”

My country, Botswana, and particularly the Okavango Delta, has been the subject of several nature and wildlife films. But rarely do these films feature people. And almost never do these films acknowledge our people for their role in protecting our water, nature, and wildlife since the beginning of time.

On my journey to tell stories of the people of the Okavango, I have gotten to know some of these legendary humans, including one of the region's revered medicine men, former safari guides, and elders from our indigenous communities. They are all “living libraries” of the Delta and its traditions.

Editor's Comment
Micro-procurement maze demands urgent reform

Whilst celebrating milestones in inclusivity, with notably P5 billion awarded to vulnerable groups, the report sounds a 'siren' on a dangerous and growing trend: the ballooning use of micro-procurement. That this method, designed for small-scale, efficient purchases, now accounts for a staggering 25% (P8 billion) of total procurement value is not a sign of agility, but a 'red flag'. The PPRA’s warning is unequivocal and must be...

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