Storm brews in Lake Ngami�s troubled waters

Following a 25-year absence, the waters from the Okavango Delta finally filled up Lake Ngami in 2009, resuscitating the long-abandoned fishing industry in the nearby villages. Last week, security officers descended on fishing camps around the lake to enforce a recent ban necessitated by rising pollution. Correspondent, BONIFACE KEAKABETSE reports on the blessing that became a curse

A battalion of security officers descended on fishermen this week, in the climax of the troubles that have afflicted the lake, since it refilled in 2009.

Lake Ngami, a seasonal water body, is believed to be among the last remaining fragments of the ancient and mammoth Lake Makgadikgadi, which is believed to have overflown and drained into Victoria Falls, before becoming extinct more than 20,000 years ago.

Editor's Comment
Botswana at a critical juncture

While the political shift brings hope for change, it also places immense pressure on the new administration to deliver on its election promises in the face of serious economic challenges.On another level, newly appointed Finance Minister Ndaba Gaolathe’s grim assessment of the country’s finances adds urgency to the moment. The budget deficit, expected to be P8.7 billion, is now anticipated to be even higher due to underperforming diamond...

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