Environment and tourism minister Wynter Mmolotsi has emphasised the need to use conservation science as a guide to tackle the growing challenges and threats facing the Okavango Delta.
Mmolotsi said this when official opening the Okavango Delta Conservation Science Symposium held in Maun this week.
He stated that these challenges include climate change as altered rainfall patterns and extreme weather events threaten water levels and ecosystem stability, human-wildlife conflict, illegal wildlife trade and unsustainable land use, and issues of trans boundary water security in the case of Angola and Namibia.
“The role of science and research cannot be downplayed in shaping conservation decisions. Scientific research is the foundation of effective conservation, and this symposium serves as a critical platform for sharing knowledge and fostering innovation in conservation science, and supporting interdisciplinary research and building a robust national research agenda,” he said.
Mmolotsi noted that the new government is committed to supporting interdisciplinary research and fostering stronger collaboration between scientists and policymakers. He added that government is also committed to research-driven decision-making to ensure the long-term protection of the Okavango Delta and other conservation areas in Botswana.
He further expressed that indigenous knowledge must be integrated into conservation strategies therefore involvement of local communities is of paramount importance. Mmolotsi noted that the involvement of local communities, the next generation of scientists and the youth is crucial for conservation to succeed.
“The Okavango Delta is not an isolated system. It depends on the health of the entire Cubango-Okavango River Basin. This highlights the need for continued regional collaboration with Angola and Namibia to ensure sustainable water management and ecological protection,” he said.
He stated that the government is committed to working with fellow brothers and sisters in Angola and Namibia to ensure sustainable use of the shared water resources that sustain the Okavango Delta.
In an interview, Botswana Wild Bird Trust Managing Director, Nlisi Mothusi explained that the symposium was a platform for the researchers to share ideas, strengthen partnerships and foster collaboration.
He noted that through the symposium the researchers were be able to share ideas on how to tackle some of the challenges that are facing the Okavango Delta. Mothusi also stated that through the event researchers were be able to come up with informed decisions that would shape the government’s conservation policies.
