Kgang: BATLA’s new broom sweeps clean
The Botswana Association of Tribal Land Authorities (BATLA) convened a conference in Palapye last Thursday to elect new leadership with Kgang Kgang of Kweneng Land Board emerging as the new president.
On the other hand, Fedilis Machola of Tati Land Board took the treasurer role, while Major Molefhi from Kgatleng Land Board assumed the position of publicity officer and Kgotso Mathe of Malete Land Board is the new project officer.
Kgang said in an interview on Friday that the committee expected three additional positions by co-option, including governance, welfare, and research and policy officers.
“BATLA’s functions involve protecting and promoting the interests of land boards, taking necessary actions, and making presentations to the government and relevant bodies. “It engages with the land boards for equitable land distribution, adhering to existing legislations,” he explained.
The new president highlighted the association’s role in promoting the development of land policies and laws through research, studies, workshops, and seminars. He said the focus is encouraging legal instruments and policy measures to protect natural resources.
He emphasised monitoring national trends in land, management and the law, making policy recommendations to land boards, the government and other institutions.
Kgang, in his new role at BATLA, expressed a determination to educate the public about land and land investment issues. He believes that by increasing awareness and understanding of these issues, he can contribute to improving the lives of Batswana. Under Kgang’s leadership, the committee plans to advise government on potential land reforms to facilitate easier changes in land use, subdivision, and related transactions, aiming to “make land more accessible and usable for Batswana”.
Furthermore, he highlighted the committee’s commitment to bringing the government closer to the people, emphasising supporting the youth, underprivileged, and marginalised communities regarding land ownership.
According to Kgang, access to land is critical for these groups as it can enhance their quality of life and economic opportunities.
As outlined by Kgang, the committee will develop strategies to reduce and prevent land abuse, wildfires, and pollution, aiming to protect the environment and the people in affected areas.
Collaborating with other ministries such as Agriculture, Environment and Tourism, Trade, and Entrepreneurship is part of the new committee’s strategy to form a stronger coalition, which Kgang hopes will enhance the reduction of harmful effects on the environment and human health.