Tsabong, Botswana – 12 May 2025
The Centre for Coordination of Agricultural Research and Development for Southern Africa (CCARDESA) participated in the national launch of Botswana’s Ecosystem-Based Adaptation and Mitigation Project in Communal Rangelands. The event took place at the Tsabong VDC Grounds in the Kgalagadi District and brought together national leaders, development partners, and local communities to mark the beginning of a bold initiative aimed at restoring degraded rangelands and strengthening climate resilience.
The project, which is being implemented under the leadership of Conservation International with support from the Green Climate Fund, was officially opened by His Excellency Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, President of the Republic of Botswana. He delivered a powerful address that underscored the government’s commitment to making this project a success. He emphasized that the initiative is about restoring the dignity of Batswana, uplifting lives, and building a legacy rooted in respect for human rights and ecological stewardship.
Acting Minister of Lands and Agriculture, Dr. Edwin Dikoloti, noted that the Ministry, in collaboration with the community and development partners, would work diligently to ensure that the project meets its goals and delivers real, lasting benefits. He acknowledged the critical role of dikgosi and traditional leaders, describing them as key agents of sustainable development whose continued support would be vital throughout the project’s implementation. He also encouraged communities to remain actively engaged, reinforcing that their involvement and ownership were crucial for the sustainability and success of the initiative.
Ms. Portia Segomelo, Chief of Party for Conservation International in Botswana, gave a detailed overview of the project, noting its multi-faceted approach to building resilience in rural communities. The project will not only promote sustainable grazing practices and biodiversity conservation but also provide economic and social benefits to households that depend on communal rangelands for their livelihoods.
The atmosphere at the launch was one of optimism and shared purpose. Speaking on behalf of Conservation International, Mr. Steve Andrews, Vice President for the Green Climate Fund Agency, expressed his satisfaction at seeing Botswana take bold steps toward rangeland restoration, describing the project as a model of nature-based climate action. His remarks were echoed by Mr. Jimmiel Mandima, Chief Field Officer for Conservation International’s Africa Field Division, who highlighted the organization’s broader commitment to restoring 100 million hectares globally by 2032. He stressed that biodiversity and ecological integrity must remain central to climate adaptation strategies, especially in vulnerable ecosystems like those found in southern Botswana.
Representing CCARDESA at the launch were Mrs. Bridget Kakuwa-Kasongamulilo and Mr. Nelson Edireste, who joined other key stakeholders in endorsing the country’s renewed commitment to sustainable land management.
The Ecosystem-Based Adaptation and Mitigation in Communal Rangelands Project is a timely intervention that not only contributes to Botswana’s national climate objectives but also aligns with regional and global goals under the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. For CCARDESA, participation in this launch reaffirms its commitment to advancing climate-smart agriculture, sustainable land use, and inclusive development across Southern Africa.
