Content Team 
The Local Operators Workshop at the Botswana Travel and Tourism Expo (BTTE) 2024 was a momentous occasion, graced by Hon. Wynter Boipuso Mmolotsi, Minister of Environment and Tourism of Botswana. Attending and giving remarks for the first time at BTTE in his capacity as Minister, Hon. Mmolotsi underscored the vital role of local operators in shaping Botswana’s tourism industry, which continues to gain recognition as a global leader in sustainable travel.
The Minister highlighted the workshop’s significance, describing it as a pivotal platform for collaboration and forward-thinking. This workshop is a very crucial moment for tourism stakeholders to come together, engage in meaningful discussions, and share insights that will help shape the future of our tourism sector.
Hon. Mmolotsi also recognised local operators as the face and backbone of Botswana’s tourism industry, applauding their efforts in crafting the immersive, authentic experiences that make the country stand out.
“You are the ones who create the experiences, manage the interactions, and offer the authentic stories that showcase the best of Botswana to travellers from around the world. From our world-class safaris to our rich cultural tours, you offer the deep, immersive, and memorable experiences that make Botswana uncompetitive.” Hon. Mmolotsi said
The Minister reiterated the importance of sustainability, not only as an environmental goal but also as a means of fostering long-term opportunities for local communities and promoting inclusive growth. He encouraged operators to adopt innovative solutions to meet the evolving expectations of travellers while contributing positively to conservation and community empowerment.
“Sustainability is not just about protecting our environment; it is about creating opportunities for our people and preserving our natural and cultural heritage for future generations,” he explained.
Addressing challenges and unlocking opportunities for the tourism industry, the Minister reflected on the progress made while emphasising the need to focus on strategies that enhance tourism in Botswana. He highlighted key government initiatives aimed at addressing long-standing issues, including the following:
- A Concession Area Committee has been established to resolve lease-related challenges and ensure transparent, citizen-centred allocations.
- The Air Access Project has been launched in August 2024 and aims to improve Botswana’s local, regional, and global air connectivity, enhancing the country’s accessibility to international travellers.
- To advance citizen empowerment, the government has reserved tenders for prime tourism sites for citizen-owned companies and joint ventures, encouraging partnerships to boost citizen participation in the tourism sector.
Hon. Mmolotsi also spoke of aligning the National Tourism Strategy with the National Transformation Strategy to ensure that tourism remains a vital contributor to Botswana’s economy, benefiting all citizens.
The workshop, marked by engaging discussions and shared insights, set the tone for a collaborative and innovative path forward. As BTTE 2024 unfolds, the vision articulated by Hon. Mmolotsi promises to propel Botswana’s tourism industry to new heights while staying true to its values of sustainability and inclusivity.
