Tshekedi Khama

Botswana government says there are no exclusive rights holders to filming in the Savuti area located in the Chobe National Park and advised anyone willing to film and photography research there to apply for permission. In a notice through the Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism, it was revealed that the only time that filming and research permits are not issued is when there are too many approved applications for one area.

“The Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism wishes to advise the public that Environmental Research, Filming and Photography permits for Savuti located in the Chobe National Park are not exclusive to any company or individual,” said the ministry.

“Any companies, institutions or individuals that wish carry out filming, photography and research in the Savuti area are free to apply at MEWTresearch@gov.bw,” it added.

According to government, the only time that filming and research permits are not issued is when there are too many approved applications for one area.

In such instances, the issuing of permits is stopped for a short while to allow for other permits to complete, after which issuing resumes. “Should there be a need to stop or suspend the issuance of Research, Filming and Photography permits for any one area the Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism will communicate such information publicly.”

Any members of the public and institutions that have received any information contrary to this are advised to contact the Deputy Permanent Secretary for Natural Resources at telephone no +267 3647919 with details for clarification.