Botswana Positions Tourism at Core of Sustainable Economic Growth
Botswana has signalled its intent to embed tourism at the centre of national economic planning, using the platform of the NextGen Tourism Business Expo in Gaborone to announce a wide-ranging policy shift. Speaking at the event, Botswana Tourism Organisation Acting CEO Justice Ofentse outlined recovery figures showing 1,183,432 international arrivals in 2023, with 2025 on track to surpass pre-pandemic levels. Long-haul markets including the US, Germany and France have returned strongly, while newer markets such as India, China, and the Gulf states are being actively targeted.
To build on this growth, Botswana aims to prioritise four areas: product and market diversification, visa reform, improved air connectivity, and sharper destination marketing. Ofentse promoted a move beyond traditional safari offerings, embracing cultural, conservation-led and community-based tourism to reach broader audiences. The Expo also highlighted plans to grow the business events sector as a way to distribute tourism benefits more evenly. Improved access and bolder promotion are expected to widen the opportunity for both local operators and international tour planners, with Botswana positioning itself as a key destination within multi-country African itineraries.
Source: VoyagesAfriq
