- call for CBOs to revive economy as diamond and beef sales decline
As Botswana’s diamond and beef industries face a severe downturn, creating significant economic pressure, Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) have been urged to overhaul their operations to drive growth through tourism.
The plea was made by the Minister of Environment and Tourism, Wynter Mmolotsi, during a consultative meeting with CBOs held in Maun last week. The session focused on governance, the new Community-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) Act, and enhancing community participation in conservation and tourism.
Minister Mmolotsi noted that Botswana has long relied on diamonds and beef, both of which are currently struggling. He emphasized that this decline requires the tourism industry to step up as the primary engine of national economic growth.
He described CBOs as essential custodians of tourism and insisted they must modernize their operations to contribute meaningfully to the economy. Mmolotsi highlighted the urgent need to position tourism as a central pillar of economic diversification, tasking CBOs with managing natural resources for the direct benefit of their communities.
“We have to come up with plans to revive our economy by taking advantage of the tourism industry,” Mmolotsi stated. “Botswana intends to position tourism as a core pillar of diversification now that the beef and diamond sectors are underperforming.”
He further explained that under the Botswana Economic Transformation Program (BETP), tourism has been officially identified as the catalyst for future growth.
“CBOs must change how they operate. This is why we passed the CBNRM Act—to improve management and ensure natural resources are used wisely to benefit local people,” he said.
The Minister acknowledged that while CBOs have historically generated significant revenue, mismanagement of funds has frequently led to internal conflicts and disputes. He urged community trusts to adopt a professional business mindset.
“Tourism is a business. Community trusts must serve their people by improving livelihoods and using funds for development. They are expected to understand business operations and how to manage professional partnerships,” Mmolotsi added.
He also encouraged trusts to cultivate strong relationships with investors to secure sustainable funding, align projects with local needs, and minimize operational risks.
“We no longer have the luxury of relying on beef and diamonds. We must ensure the tourism industry operates effectively to deliver results,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, the implementation of the new CBNRM Act, signed on January 12, 2026, has faced delays due to an ongoing review of regulations. Minister Mmolotsi noted that these reviews are expected to be completed soon, with the Act projected to become fully effective in June.
