One of Botswana's main opposition parties, the Botswana National Front (BNF), has branded the Botswana government's eviction of the Gana and Gwi Bushmen from their land as indefensible'.
In a statement published yesterday in the Botswana newspaper Mmegi, the BNF, condemns in the strongest of terms the colonial-style forced relocation of Basarwa [Bushmen] of the CKGR [Central Kalahari Game Reserve].'
The statement continues, The BNF rejects the government's simplistic view that indigenous peoples like Basarwa have only two options – either to remain locked up in an ancient lifestyle in the game reserves and perish 'like the dodo' or relocate to remote places like New Xade and succumb to assimilation into the cultures of dominant ethnic groups.
In our view, development is not just economic, social and political but also cultural. It must respect the cultural identities of the people. Development, however well meaning, is not something that can be done to the people or imposed on them against their will.
We therefore call upon the government to immediately and unconditionally allow Basarwa to return to their homeland or CKGR where their ancestors are buried because their cultures, economies and identities are inextricably intertwined with their traditional lands and resources.'
To read the statement in full click here
Act now to help the Bushmen
Your support is vital if the Bushmen are to survive. There are many ways you can help.
- Writing a letter to the Botswana government is a quick and simple way to let them know of your concern.
- Donate to the Bushman campaign (and other Survival campaigns).
- Write to your MP or MEP (UK) or Senators and members of Congress (US).
- Write to your local Botswana high commission or embassy.
- If you want to get more involved, contact Survival…
- Visit the Bushmen’s own website…
