Well, what do you think were the over-riding impressions we have had? You'd probably not be too surprised if you're an African, but for you "out-of -towners" maybe there are a few revelations.
Africa is poor and needs to help itself. There are lots of young women with young babies on their hips and there is plentiful access to (I believe) cheap booze. This is not good.
The reason you pay so much for tourism in Botswana is that the government went on a spending binge and built ludicrously fancy tourism offices all over the show - and in the most unlikely places. Now you may "nay say" me and think that there's good investment there, but when you compare what surrounds the offices, the expense is farcical.
The "community camp sites" could be really good, but there appears to be no incentive to improve the facilities, they are poorly managed and lack decent hygiene standards. Etosha has lost the plot - but, the wildlife is spectacular at one of the waterholes.
There are lots of schools and all the kids appear to be attending and there is even a large proportion wearing uniforms. But there are a lot of adults sitting around doing nothing (although crime in SA is far more prevalent and brutal than in either Namibia or Botswana).
Life is tough in Africa, living conditions are harsh, but the people are very friendly, warm and welcoming. I would challenge anyone to repair a tyre with the equipment we witnessed!
Nieuwoudtville people are strange but very hospitable and they make scrumptious potjies!
In general we had superb and plentiful game viewing and in particular the birdlife is phenomenal.
Get out there and do it - there's always an excuse not to, always a reason to delay. Time is short my friends, make the most of it. Travel in Africa is special, believe it! Do it!
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