Environmental policy and administrative management

The Mantenge area in Kalakamati comprises a chain of hills with diverse vegetation, rock art and a sacred well in the rock. The well is estimated to be 30 metres deep and never dries up. However, some of the community members especially religious groups from all over Botswana have been de-phasing the rock art, destroying some of the artefacts and ferrying large amounts of water for use in religious rituals. The rock art is mostly dephased by smoke from fires that are made by the religious groups that hold night vigils at the well. Large volumes of water are ferried by cars and this threatens the existence of the well. In addition, some groups when performing sacred baths in the well indiscriminately litter the area. The area has such a scenic view of Kalakamati and surrounding areas, and is endowed with wild fruits. The area can provide very exciting walking trails and its proximity to Domboshaba hills presents an opportunity for a cultural village or an eco-tourism venture. The project aims at raising awareness and appreciation of Mantenge conservation area with view to continue policing and protecting the natural resources therein. Through a series of kgotla meetings and a workshop the community will discuss the best options for addressing Mantenge issues. In addition, this will make sure that all the stakeholders are involved in finding solutions that will mitigate defacing of the rock and the sacred well. Finally, the dialogue will lead to the formation of a legal entity that will enable the community to implement a full project.

Botswana