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Understanding the Conflict in Botswana's Central Kalahari Game Reserve

The Ongoing Struggle for Land Rights in Botswana

Learn about the conflict between the San people and the Botswana government over the Central Kalahari Game Reserve.

Understanding the Conflict in Botswana's Central Kalahari Game Reserve

Central Kalahari Game Reserve, Botswana

Since the 1970s, the San people (Bushmen) have been engaged in a protracted conflict with the Botswana government concerning the Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR). The San claim ancestral rights to the land, while the government prioritizes conservation efforts. This conflict has led to numerous court cases, forced evictions in 2006, and ongoing disputes over land access and resource management. The situation highlights complex issues surrounding land rights, indigenous populations, and conservation in the region.

Historical Context

The conflict's roots lie in the decades-long struggle for land rights and self-determination by the San people.

Forced Evictions

The 2006 evictions of San communities from the CKGR resulted in significant human rights concerns and international condemnation.

Legal Battles

Numerous court cases, including some of Botswana's most expensive, have been fought over land access and rights.

What is the Central Kalahari Game Reserve?

The CKGR is a vast protected area in Botswana, known for its biodiversity and wildlife.

What are the key issues in the conflict?

The main issues revolve around land rights, access to resources, and the impact of conservation policies on the San people's livelihoods and culture.

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