IN QUEST FOR ADVENTURE
A Lion kill that never happened
Kasane, renowned as one of Botswana’s premier travel destinations, captivates visitors with its delightful allure. Nestled near Africa’s ‘ Four Corners,’ where Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe converge, Kasane stands as a tourism gem. During our recent visit to this enchanting town, we had the privilege of covering the 14th edition of the L’Oréal- UNESCO For Women in Science Young Talents Sub- Saharan Africa Awards.
Held annually, the awards ceremony celebrated twenty- five Ph. D. candidates and five post- doctoral researchers. Among them were two outstanding Batswana breaking barriers in their fields: Mesha Mbisana, a Ph. D. student in Physical Sciences dedicated to improving food safety for better health in Africa, and Bonolo Bonita Phinius, a Ph. D. student in Life and Environmental Sciences shining a light on pathways to fight Hepatitis B in Botswana.
The prestigious event, graced by President Mokgweetsi Masisi, was a gathering of dedicated women contributing to various causes. However, the entertainment aspect of the program lacked excitement in its initial days.
Our journey to Kasane began with the first Air Botswana flight on a Tuesday morning. Despite a detour through Maun before reaching our final destination, the trip was smooth and timely. The stopover in Maun added a dash of excitement as we picked up enthusiastic tourists ready for the adventure.
As we descended towards Kasane and caught sight of the mighty Chobe River, the atmosphere shifted. Like children with a newfound treat, the passengers eagerly exclaimed, ‘ Chobe!’ The anticipation was palpable as soon as the seatbelt sign turned off; they wasted no time standing up, ready for the next adventure. Our group of journalists shared the same enthusiasm, eager to explore what Chobe had in store for us.
Our accommodation at Chobe Safari Lodge provided a luxurious experience. Eager to delve deeper into Kasane, I explored the executive room, feeling more like an entire house suitable for a family. The initial day offered a seemingly ordinary welcome dinner, which, for me, was overshadowed by my post- procedure recovery. The week before, I underwent a medical procedure, affecting my appetite and sleep.
Wednesday brought us to Chobe Junior School for an engaging event where scientists interacted with curious learners. The evening followed with another dinner, lacking the excitement we hoped for.
The pinnacle of our adventure came on Friday, the day of our departure. A media colleague, Felicity Male from ( BOPA) informed us of exciting activities lined up for the day, turning the last leg of our trip into an unexpected thrill. Hosted by the Ministry of Communications, the day began with a magical three- hour boat cruise. We captured Instagramworthy moments, with the highlight being a herd of elephants by the riverbank. Following the cruise, we discovered there was a game drive planned. Although some of us were scheduled to leave for the airport, we managed to join the drive in a separate vehicle. This impromptu decision turned out to be the best part of our journey, offering a captivating ride filled with energy and adrenaline through Chobe National Park.
Spotting elephants, impalas, buffalos, and a unique Kingbird, our adventure reached a climax when we witnessed lions on a hunting mission. The captivating experience made us lose track of time, reminding us that the best moments often unfold when least expected.
With minutes now ticking, and the rest of the party not far from where we were, we learnt that lions were spotted. We literally forgot that we were under pressure, and that we needed to head out. Off we went in search of the lions. By the time we arrived, there were close to eight cars, all waiting with abated breath to see whether the lions would do any hunting that afternoon. There was a herd of Impalas not far from the lions. Walking steadily, and with calculated steps, the lion attempted to sneak on its next meal, but alas, the prey smelt danger in the air, and scattered. By this time, it is now after 1500hrs, and none of us wanted to leave before we could see the big moment when the lion, which was joined by two others, could make a kill. We moved with it to the banks of the Chobe River, where it also appeared that it was not its lucky day. As the minutes ticked, the other fun lovers kept reminding us that we were going to miss our flight.
The sun began to set and we reluctantly left the hunting party, cherishing the memories of an adventurous and entertaining day.