- – Review to modernise legal framework helping the tourism sector remain competitive
Government has started consulting tourism stakeholders nationwide as it moves to review the Tourism Act of 2009, emphasising that the current framework no longer meets the needs of Botswana’s expanding tourism industry.
Speaking during the first stakeholder consultation in Gaborone recently, Minister of Environment and Tourism Wynter Mmolotsi said the review aims to modernise the legal framework, helping the tourism sector remain competitive while contributing more to the national economy.
Mmolotsi said the Tourism Act has guided the industry for over 15 years but has become outdated due to shifts in the global tourism market. He noted that dynamics such as digital technology, environmental sustainability, heightened competition, and the need for greater citizen participation require legislation that is more responsive to modern realities.
He explained that the review follows the adoption of the National Tourism Policy in 2021 and the development of the 10-year National Tourism Strategy and Master Plan, which aims to grow the industry through strategic marketing, improved infrastructure, product diversification, and a more supportive business environment.
According to the minister, government also intends to review other laws intersecting with tourism, including legislation on wildlife conservation, national parks, museums, forestry, civil aviation, transport permits, and immigration. He said aligning these laws will streamline growth and attract investment.
Mmolotsi stated that the review process will engage tourism businesses, community organisations, local authorities, and other stakeholders through nationwide consultations and written submissions, ensuring the revised law reflects the views of those directly involved in the sector.
He added that tourism remains a vital driver of Botswana’s economic transformation under the Botswana Economic Transformation Programme and National Development Plan 12, as the country transitions toward becoming a high-income economy.
Mmolotsi encouraged stakeholders to utilise the consultations to raise concerns and propose solutions that will strengthen the industry, shaping a law that benefits the nation and future generations.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment and Tourism Abigail Khumoyame also urged stakeholders to participate actively in the review process, noting that their contributions would help develop legislation that enhances the ease of doing business.
Khumoyame said the review comes at a time when tourism is expected to play a larger role in job creation and economic growth. She noted that the sector has changed significantly since 2009, making it necessary to update the law to capture new opportunities and tackle modern challenges.
She said the revised legislation should encourage investment, innovation, and competitiveness while ensuring Botswana remains an attractive destination for both local and international tourists.
Khumoyame also stressed the importance of increasing citizen participation in the tourism industry so that more Batswana benefit from opportunities across the tourism value chain.
She expressed confidence that the consultation process would result in a modern Tourism Act capable of supporting the future growth of Botswana’s tourism sector.
