Botswana gifts India 8 Cheetahs
New Delhi, Nov 13: In a historic moment for wildlife conservation and India–Africa cooperation, President Droupadi Murmu and the President of Botswana, Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, on Thursday witnessed the symbolic release of cheetahs at the Mokolodi Nature Reserve near Gaborone.
The event marked Botswana’s donation of eight cheetahs to India as part of the next phase of Project Cheetah, India’s ambitious initiative to reintroduce the species into its natural habitat.
The cheetahs, captured from the Ghanzi region of Botswana, were released into the quarantine facility by wildlife experts from both countries. This collaboration builds upon the successful translocation of cheetahs from Namibia in 2022 and underscores India’s continuing efforts to restore its ecological heritage. The joint effort also signals a new chapter in India–Botswana cooperation in biodiversity protection and sustainable conservation practices.
During her visit, President Murmu lauded the growing partnership between India and Botswana in environmental conservation and scientific research. She said the event represents “a shared commitment to preserving wildlife and promoting ecological balance for future generations.” Following the ceremony, President Murmu held separate meetings with Vice President Ndaba Nkosinathi Gaolathe and Minister of International Relations Dr. Phenyo Butale. The discussions focused on expanding cooperation in areas such as trade, education, health, digital technology, agriculture, renewable energy, and environmental protection.
Later in the day, the President addressed members of the Indian community in Botswana at a reception hosted by the Indian High Commission in Gaborone. Accompanied by Minister of State for Jal Shakti and Railways V. Somanna and Members of Parliament Parbhubhai Nagarbhai Vasava and D.K. Aruna, she praised the Indian diaspora for their role in strengthening bilateral relations and for contributing to Botswana’s socio-economic development. “The people of India are proud of your contributions,” President Murmu told the gathering. “You are true cultural ambassadors of India, representing values of hard work, honesty, and harmony that bind our two nations.” She encouraged community members to engage actively with initiatives such as the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) scheme and Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas, and to share their experiences in India’s development journey. The President emphasised that India and Botswana’s relationship is rooted in trust, respect, and shared democratic values. Her visit reaffirmed India’s commitment to deepening its engagement with African nations through partnerships based on mutual benefit and sustainable development. President Murmu is scheduled to return to New Delhi on November 14, marking the conclusion of her successful state visits to Angola and Botswana.
