Africa-Press – Botswana. Residents of Kedia and Xere have expressed concern regarding the living conditions for Basarwa pupils residing in Rural Area Dwellers (RADs) hostels, calling for immediate intervention from relevant authorities to improve the situation.
During recent consultations held by the Inter-Ministerial Committee, multiple challenges were highlighted, particularly the insufficient security at these facilities. Reports of intrusion incidents have heightened fears for the safety of the learners, signaling a need for better protective measures.
Furthermore, language barrier is also a challenge as some pupils struggle to communicate effectively.
Mr Kgomotso Gotang, a community representative from Kedia, articulated the emotional struggles faced by young children, stating, ‘it is particularly difficult for a six-year-old to adjust in RADs hostels while being separated from their parents.’
He reported instances of children attempting to flee due to the distress of separation. Furthermore, Mr Gotang pointed out logistical issues, mentioning the late arrivals of boarding students at the start of school terms, with some needing to be located and persuaded to return.
To address these challenges, he proposed the employment of house mothers at RADs hostels, which he believes could foster a more nurturing environment for the young residents.
In Xere, Mr Eric Sekausu raised critical issues regarding cultural preservation among his tribe, particularly following their relocation from the Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR). He lamented that this move had led to cultural dilution through mixing with tribes of different backgrounds, resulting in the oppression of his community.
Mr Sekausu criticised a government policy that restricted access to ancestral lands for the Basarwa of the CKGR, asserting that it should be reviewed.
“The relocation has severely affected our traditional way of life, particularly our practices of hunting and gathering,” he stated.
He said Basarwa were given cattle upon relocation but they were not provided with adequate watering points, leading to a decline in cattle ownership among the community.
He therefore advocated for the relocation of Basarwa back to the CKGR for them to lead their normal lives.
Source:dailynews
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