Minister of Environment and Tourism, Wynter Mmolotsi, delivered a thought-provoking address at the Botswana Guide Association’s (BOGA) 17th annual conference, outlining both challenges and opportunities for the tourism sector.
Officiating at his second tourism related event since assuming office of minister of environment and tourism, Mmolotsi acknowledged the less-than-ideal state of infrastructure in Botswana’s protected areas. The minister emphasised government’s commitment to improving internal roads in protected areas and tracks, vital to enhancing visitor experience.
“We are committed to ensuring that we prioritise visitor experience, and this includes the infrastructure within our protected areas,” he said.
He also made an assurance that the ministry is working to better equip the department of wildlife and national parks (DWNP) to maintain these critical assets in a timely manner. This as the department has over the years been poorly resources to execute some of its key functions leading dilapidated infrastructure. Among the key functions that have suffered was the effective management of national parks and game reserve, which have in some instances led to lapses in anti-poaching initiatives.
Highlighting the importance of tourism specific infrastructure, the Mmolotsi praised tourism operators for their role in maintaining key airstrips such as Savuti and Xakanaxa, which facilitate tourist travel to lodges in the country’s pristine wilderness.
However, the minister did not shy away from addressing pressing threats to the tourism industry stating that poaching and campsite theft were flagged as significant risks that could harm Botswana’s tourism reputation.
While their impacts are not yet widespread, Mmolotsi emphasised the need for vigilance. “It is for this reason that I implore you to do your part and be our eyes in the fields. Together, we can overcome these challenges,” he urged.
Mmolotsi reiterated the importance of sustainable wildlife utilisation as a cornerstone for deriving value from Botswana’s natural resources, emphasising that the government has placed tourism at the heart of its economic diversification strategy, with a focus on generating jobs and improving livelihoods.
Mmolotsi also emphasised that conservation is a collective effort, requiring collaboration among policymakers, communities, NGOs, and tourism stakeholders.
“Over the years, we have learned that effective conservation is not a solitary effort, but a symphony of collaboration,” he stated.
Recognising BOGA’s contribution, the minister commended the organisation for empowering local communities to claim their rightful stake in Botswana’s tourism sector.
“We are delighted to have you as our partner in developing the tourism industry and conserving our natural resources,” he said.
