AUC Chair,
AUC Commissioner,
Honourable Ministers,
Heads of Diplomatic Agencies,
Heads of UN Agencies,
Distinguished Delegates
Ladies and Gentlemen

Good Morning,

1. It is with great honour and a deep sense of responsibility that I address you today at this Ministerial Segment of the First Conference of Parties to the Maputo Convention on the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources.

2. This Convention represents a profound commitment by all African nations to the protection, conservation, and sustainable management of our unique natural heritage. It is a recognition of the vital role that nature plays in supporting not only our ecosystems but also our economies, cultures, and livelihoods.

Honourable Ministers,
3. The administrative and regulatory frameworks that we are deciding upon today will guide the effective implementation of the Maputo Convention, and will be the cornerstone upon which our collective conservation efforts rest.

4. We must ensure that the administrative structures we create are capable of coordinating efforts across borders, aligning national policies with regional goals, and ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to achieve the Convention’s objectives.

5. At the same time, the regulatory frameworks we design must be adaptive, responsive, and inclusive. They must not only reflect the realities of Africa’s diverse landscapes and ecosystems but also be informed by the knowledge and experiences of the local communities who depend on these resources.

6. It is essential that we build frameworks that are both technically sound and culturally relevant, ensuring that they empower communities while safeguarding our environment.

Honourable Ministers,
7. The Maputo Convention is not just an agreement — it is a call to action. And this action will be guided by the frameworks we are developing today. As we discuss these critical issues, I urge us all to remember that collaboration is key. Governments, civil society, the private sector, and local communities must work together to make the objectives of Maputo Convention a reality.

8. In this regard, I would like to commend the efforts of our technical experts in the development of the draft administrative and regulatory documents before us. I am confident that the Honourable Ministers here present also extend the same appreciation to our technical experts.

9. As we move forward, we must remain committed to ensuring that the Maputo Convention is more than just a piece of paper. We must make it a living document — one that drives concrete change on the ground. This will require all of us to be resolute in our efforts, to show leadership, and to hold ourselves accountable to the promises we have made to future generations.

10. In closing, I want to reaffirm Botswana’s commitment to the principles of Multi-lateralism, and further assure honourable members here present, that Botswana will be a full party to the Maputo convention, and I urge other Member States to also become party to the convention.

I thank you.
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