In a strong display of commitment to inclusive development, Palms for Life, a non-profit civil society organization, recently paid a courtesy call to the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government and Traditional Affairs. The engagement was aimed at fostering strategic collaboration to improve the livelihoods of vulnerable populations in Botswana, particularly those living in remote and underserved communities.
The meeting was led by Ms. Grace Muzila, Advisor to Palms for Life, alongside Botswana Country Coordinator Ms. Dorothy Okatch. The delegation shared details on ongoing and upcoming initiatives centered on early childhood development, sustainable infrastructure, and income-generating projects tailored to local needs.
A key highlight from the discussion was Palms for Life’s recent partnership with the Okavango District Council. The organization invested BWP 2 million to enhance community recreation by constructing jungle gyms and upgrading four playgrounds in the district. These efforts aim to support child development and provide safe play environments for young children.
Palms for Life also outlined ambitious plans to establish Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres in remote settlements, including Saxau. The proposed centres will feature classrooms, kitchens, and secure hostels fully equipped with beds, mattresses, tables, and chairs, addressing both educational and welfare needs of young children in these areas.
Permanent Secretary Ms. Gabatlotlane Mogapi welcomed the initiative, praising the organization’s dedication and aligning it with the Government’s renewed focus on harnessing partnerships for inclusive national development. She emphasized the importance of upgrading current hostel facilities and highlighted solar energy as a dual-purpose solution — both for powering infrastructure and offering communities a sustainable income stream through fee-based energy access.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to deepen collaboration and drive impactful change for marginalized populations across Botswana.
