Riding on the successes achieved at various global outings and campaigns to position Botswana as the preferred destination for tourists in Africa, especially the just-concluded World Travel Market in London, the Botswana Tourism Organisation (BTO) is not relenting.
The apex tourism body successfully pulled off this year’s edition of the Botswana Travel & Tourism Expo 2023 (BTTE).As expected, the event was a gathering of global tourism and travel stakeholders, including travel buyers and sellers, governments and the private sector tourism industry in the Southern African country.
In her opening remarks at the expo, Acting Minister of Environment and Tourism, Hon. Nnaniki Wilhemina Tebogo Makwinja, said that Botswana is determined to share her magic with the world, while encouraging all the stakeholders, both domestic and international, to work with BTO in achieving the goals.
“We are open to collaboration, innovation, and new ideas that can help us protect and promote Botswana as a leading sustainable tourism destination.
“I encourage all participants in this Expo to engage in meaningful discussions, network, and share your knowledge and ideas on how we can collectively make tourism in Botswana more sustainable and resilient,” the Acting Minister of Environment and Tourism, said.
Also in her remarks at the Botswana Travel and Tourism Expo, Ms. Wincey Ramaphoi, Botswana Tourism Board Chairperson, described the expo as an eagerly anticipated annual event where industry professionals and enthusiasts converge to celebrate and promote the nation’s beauty and diversity.
She noted further that the expo emphasizes sustainable tourism, highlighting Botswana’s landscapes, cultures, and wildlife while committing to conservation and community engagement. “Despite challenges from the global pandemic, there is a resilient and optimistic spirit, with a focus on adapting, innovating, and collectively navigating turbulent times for the industry’s recovery.
“The expo serves as a networking platform, fostering collaborations, connecting local businesses with international markets, and providing opportunities for entrepreneurs and travelers. I would like to express my gratitude to partners, sponsors, and exhibitors, and urge attendees to use the event to showcase Botswana, forge partnerships, and inspire memorable journeys within the country,” BTO chairperson commented.
Earlier in her presentation on the tourism update, BTO’s Acting CEO Keitumetse Setlang gave an overview of the key points in the Tourism Value Chain of the country.
According to hereto, BTO actively supports government and private sector initiatives across various tourism domains, cultivating both new and existing cultural, heritage, sports, adventure, gastronomy, and handicraft offerings.
She noted that these events, covering sports, cultural activities, and more, prioritize community participation and generate economic benefits.
“BTO ensures private sector involvement in event services, promoting local transport, tour operators, and Destination Management Companies.
In line with Eco-Tourism practices, BTO advocates for sourcing goods and services locally, aligning with the Eco-Certification Programme. Recognizing the pivotal role of the private sector, BTO is committed to unlocking the full potential of the tourism value chain,” she explained.
