Colonial processes continue to dominate many Indigenous peoples development
programmes in countries around the world. This paper examines some of the
underlying factors that contribute to continued failure in the implementation of the
Remote Area Development Programme (RADP) in Botswana. It argues that it is not
just failed implementation that is the problem, but a more fundamental problem found
in its philosophy, which suggests relentless colonialism. This paper is based on the
empirical findings of a recent study in one Basarwa settlement in Botswana and
draws on the practical experience of the author. Case examples from this study are
used to unravel and illustrate embedded colonial practices of the RADP.
Recommendations from the findings argue for the development of a decolonising
approach of development practice that may respond effectively to problems that result
from this relentless colonialism.