Environmental policy and administrative management

The Okavango Jakotsha Community Trust (OJCT) is a registered Community Based Organisation (CBO) representing the interests of the villages of of Etsha 1-13, Jao and Ikoga in the management of NG 24 and adjacent western lagoons. These villages were given resource user rights to NG 24 by the Tawana land board and became beneficiaries of Jedibe lodge and Makwena lodge which were built and managed by the Okavango Wilderness Safaris and the Drotsky family respectively. OJCT aims at refurbishing Makwena Lodge (a tourism enterprise handed to the community by the government) as a viable eco-tourism venture to improve the lives of the NG 24 communities. The area is in the heart of the Okavango Delta and is endowed with natural resources providing the much needed scenic view for a viable tourism enterprise. The venture will provide employment and cash benefits to the communities allowing them to appreciate the natural resources and increase policing of the area. The training and hands on experience will accord the community members a chance to acquire the much needed skills in the tourism industry. Once Makwena lodge is fully refurbished, it will provide accomodation for both self catering (at the campsite) and fully catered for guests in the lodge. The eco-tourism project will enable the communities to develop Majamboroka, an island deep in the delta, which is mostly used for poling activities, walks and game viewing. The activities will enable OJCT to vigilantly police the the area ensuring that it is used in an environmental conscious way. OJCT is already providing policing services to other touriesm enterprises (lodges and over landers) as it has licensed and experienced guides. The Community Escort Guides have been engaged to police the area and ensure that no illegal activities take place. Makwena lodge will provide income to OJCT and provide an incentive for acceptance of tourism as an economic activity and indeed an engine for economic growth. The venture will allow the locals a chance to meaningfully participate in the tourism industry.

Botswana