*Calls for government to remove tourism red-tapes
The Hospitality and Tourism Association of Botswana (HATAB) is actively lobbying the government to address obstacles slowing growth in the country’s tourism sector.
Addressing the media on Friday, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Lily Rakorong said tourism remains central to national development and called for stronger collaboration between the government and the private sector to unlock the industry’s full potential.
According to Rakorong, regulatory bottlenecks are a major concern, including excessive red tape, licensing challenges, infrastructure gaps, and policy uncertainty.
Further, the sector is seeking reforms to enhance global competitiveness, including easing visa application processes and strengthening international marketing and promotion efforts. Additionally, environmental and operational standards, such as managing noise pollution and improving coordination around Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE), also require attention.
“Licensing remains challenging and there is limited marketing in the tourism so we are lobbying for all this to be solved with a robust dialogue to chat the future of the sector. There are still bottlenecks around VISA application for those who wants to enter Botswana .In addition we need to be able to diversify our tourism product offering as well as improve our infrastructure,” Rakorong said.
The HATAB CEO added that while most international tourists currently come from Europe and America, there is a need to explore new markets and boost visitor numbers.
“The sector should be impactful in Botswana economy as well as livelihoods .This reforms will help us achieve a conducive environment of doing business. In terms of marketing we also want to package and advertise domestic tourism and make it as exciting and accessible to locals,” she said.
Tourism remains a significant employer. According to the available figures, the tourism sector employed 58 420 people by 2019 which placed the industry second behind Government in terms of employment creation.
However, updated figures up to 2024 are expected to be availed soon to provide a clearer picture of the industry’s current performance.
“Tourism is not only an economic driver but also a cultural bridge. With the support expressed in the recent budget and strengthened collaboration between the private sector and government we believe the narrative of 2026 will be one of resilience, growth, and success,” she said
Rakorong revealed plans to position Gaborone as a “go- to-destination” to ensure that it strives as a city.
“As the private sector we want to drive this though we expect government to facilitate things like cleanliness, proper lighting in the streets, relaxing of trading hours and safety and security in the city. It will require all sectors to play their role,” she said, adding that the upcoming World Athletics Relays Gaborone 2026 will also help raise Botswana’s international tourism profile.
Meanwhile, this year’s annual HATAB Conference is slated for the 23rd of April in Maun and will be held under the theme: “Redefining Tourism Strategies to Reshape the Botswana Tourism Landscape.”
The event is designed to provide a platform for robust dialogue and innovative ideas for the future of the industry.
