The management of Community Trusts requires consultation, respect and accountability. This was the message delivered yesterday by the Minister of Environment and Tourism, Hon Wynter B. Mmolotsi, during a meeting with the Pandamatenga community.
The meeting followed a petition submitted by representatives of Pandamatenga, Lesoma and Kazungula (PALEKA) villages. The petition raised concerns about how the PALEKA Board committee was handling community matters.
Minister Mmolotsi said he found it necessary to engage the Pandamatenga community directly after receiving the petition. He stressed that written submissions should reflect the actual voice of the people and not the views of a few committee members. He made it clear that the PALEKA Board of Trustees must act on decisions endorsed by the community. According to him, committees should not take action without consultation. “The community must decide, and the board must follow,” he emphasized.
The Minister highlighted that Community Trusts exist to serve local people. He warned against situations where committees act independently without proper consultation. He urged communities to demand accountability and ensure decisions are transparent.
During the meeting, Mr Mmolotsi also explained the Community-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) Bill passed by Parliament. The Bill aims to ensure communities living in tourism-rich areas benefit fairly from natural resources. He stated that the law seeks to protect communities from exploitation, including unfair practices such as illegal organ sales. While the Bill has been approved by Parliament, amendments are set to be introduced before the President signs it into law. Once signed, it will be fully implemented.
The Minister encouraged the Pandamatenga community and surrounding villages to strengthen participation in decision-making. He stressed that future progress depends on trust between communities, their committees, and government structures. By placing consultation, respect, and accountability at the center of Community Trust management, Minister Mmolotsi said communities will be better positioned to benefit from their natural resources and tourism opportunities.
