13/06/2026
๐ฆ๐๐ ๐ฃ๐๐ฅ๐ง๐๐๐๐ฃ๐๐ก๐ง๐ฆ ๐ฃ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ง๐ข ๐ง๐๐๐ ๐ฆ๐๐๐๐๐ฆ ๐๐๐๐ ๐ง๐ข ๐ง๐๐๐๐ฅ ๐๐ข๐ ๐ ๐จ๐ก๐๐ง๐๐๐ฆ
Participants of the first cohort of the Sustainable Livelihoods Approach (SLA) Training Programme for Indigenous Peoples representatives have pledged to apply and share the skills gained during the training to strengthen livelihoods in their respective communities and contribute more actively to the economy.
As part of the programme held at the Institute of Development Management (IDM), participants undertook a practical field visit to Loologane Village, where they engaged with community members and were introduced to local development initiatives, including the Sengaparile (Devil's Claw) Project and the Morula Nursery. The community welcomed the visit and expressed appreciation for being part of the learning experience.
The programme concluded with a graduation ceremony in Gaborone, where participants reflected on their journey and committed to using their newly acquired skills to support community development. Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Permanent SecretaryโOperations in the Ministry of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Mr. Kabo Diamond Moseki, emphasized that the true measure of the training lies in its impact beyond the classroom.
"The true value of this programme will not be measured by the certificates that you receive today, but by the positive changes that you will initiate within your communities upon your return," he said. He encouraged graduates to act as ambassadors of change by sharing knowledge, promoting participation, and driving community-led development initiatives.
Two participant representatives, Qose Xhukuri and Gakemotho Satau, reflected on the transformation brought about by the training, noting that it had shifted their mindset from dependency to active economic participation. They explained that while many community members had historically relied heavily on government support, the training had helped them recognize the importance of contributing directly to the economy. They further observed that Botswana's economy was historically supported by diamonds, but with changing economic conditions there is a growing need for communities to become self-reliant, innovative and proactive in creating sustainable livelihoods.
For her part, Xhukuri encouraged fellow Indigenous Peoples to step forward, make their voices heard and participate in development initiatives affecting their communities. She further urged them to take pride in their identity, culture and heritage while challenging stereotypes that have historically limited their participation and opportunities.
"It is time for our people to come out, be seen, raise their voices and take pride in who they are. We must move beyond dependency and recognize that we are capable of building better lives for ourselves and future generations," said Xhukuri.
Adding to this, Gakemotho Satau emphasized unity and collective empowerment among participants.
"Today, we stand united as the Khoena, inclusive of Ju, Tรก and !Xung cohort, filled with gratitude for the incredible opportunity bestowed upon us by our Government and the Institute of Development Management. This training has not only equipped us with invaluable skills but has also fostered a sense of community and collaboration among us. Together we stand, divided we fall. Nothing for us without us, anything about us without us, is against us" he said.
Participants expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Local Government and Traditional Affairs (MLGTA), the Botswana Economic Transformation Programme (BTEP) and IDM for their support, pledging to use the knowledge gained to promote sustainable livelihoods and inclusive development.
