FOREST CONSERVATION BOTSWANA
Prepared by: Judith Nomvuyo Ndlovu
1.0 Introduction
Forest Conservation Botswana (FCB) is a company registered under the Botswana’s companies’ Act and mandated to manage the Tropical Forest Conservation Fund (TFCF) in Botswana. The company is a non-profit making entity and is directed by the Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism on behalf of the Governments of Botswana and the United States of America. The main aim of the Tropical Forest Conservation Fund (TFCF) is to support communities, institutions/organizations in the conservation, maintenance and restoration of forest areas through activities consistent with the Botswana Forest Act and Policy, and the Tropical Forest Conservation Act.
The following Forest Conservation Activities are supported by the Fund: * Establishment, restoration, protection and maintenance of protected areas including Parks and reserves. * Development and implementation of scientifically sound systems of natural resources Management, including land and ecosystem management practices. * Training programmes to increase the scientific, technical and managerial capacities of individuals and organizations involved in conservation efforts. * Restoration, protection or sustainable use of diverse animal and plant species. * Research and identification of medicinal uses of tropical forest plant to treat human diseases, illnesses and health related concerns. * Development and support of the livelihoods of individuals living in or near forests in a manner consistent with protecting such tropical forest.
The core functions of Forest Conservation Botswana (FCB)
1. To administer the Tropical Forest Conservation Fund in promoting activities designed to conserve, maintain and restore the forests of Botswana.
2. To disburse grants from the fund to support eligible activities. 3. To oversee