Travel tourism: from the eye of the practitioner
BOTSWANA GUARDIAN: Can you elaborate on how the Ministry of Tourism and Environment has supported the growth and development of the tourism sector, particularly in the conservation and wildlife areas?
BEKS NDLOVU: The Ministry of Tourism and Environment has been instrumental in fostering the growth of the tourism sector. Their support has come through stringent conservation policies, funding for wildlife protection programs, and the establishment of protected areas. These efforts ensure that our natural resources are preserved for future generations while promoting Botswana as a top-tier destination for eco-tourism.
GUARDIAN: How does African Bush Camps collaborate with the Ministry of Tourism and Environment?
NDLOVU: At African Bush Camps, we aim to work closely with the Ministry of Tourism and Environment to align our conservation efforts with national policies. This collaboration not only supports conservation but also empowers local communities economically, which is something we strive towards.
GUARDIAN: In light of sustainable tourism, how is the Ministry of Tourism and Environment working with operators like African Bush Camps to ensure that tourism growth doesn’t negatively impact Botswana's natural resources and wildlife?
NDLOVU: The Ministry has been proactive in implementing regulations that require tourism operators to adhere to sustainable practices. They provide guidelines on eco-friendly operations and offer incentives for businesses that prioritize sustainability. At African Bush Camps, we adhere to these guidelines by using solar power, reducing waste, and engaging in community empowerment and conservation.
GUARDIAN: How effective do you think the current tourism policies are, in fostering long-term growth for the sector, and are there any areas where you feel additional policy support is needed?
NDLOVU: The current tourism policies are quite effective in promoting sustainable growth. However, there is always room for improvement. Enhanced support for community-based tourism initiatives and further investment in infrastructure would greatly benefit the sector. Continued focus on marketing Botswana as a unique and sustainable destination will also help in maintaining long-term growth.
GUARDIAN: How has the Ministry efforts aligned with the marketing strategies of businesses like African Bush Camps? NDLOVU: The Ministry has been pivotal in marketing Botswana through international campaigns, trade shows, and partnerships with global travel agencies. This aligns perfectly with our strategy at African Bush Camps, where we emphasize Botswana’s unique wildlife experiences and pristine environments. Their efforts have helped position Botswana as a top destination for discerning travellers.
GUARDIAN: In your more than two decades of experience, how is community involvement ensured in the tourism value chain, especially in terms of benefiting local communities around the national parks and reserves?
NDLOVU: There are policies that mandate tourism operators to engage local communities. This has led to job creation, skill development, and revenue-sharing initiatives that directly benefit communities. For example, African Bush Camps employs locals and source supplies from nearby areas, ensuring that the economic benefits of tourism are felt at ground level.
GUARDIAN: How does the Ministry’s stance on conservation and wildlife protection influence the operations of companies in the tourism sector like, and how do these regulations contribute to the development of the sector? NDLOVU: The Ministry's strong conservation stance sets a high standard for all operators, ensuring that tourism activities do not compromise wildlife habitats. This has led to the development of responsible tourism practices that attract eco-conscious travellers. At African Bush Camps, we are proud to operate within these guidelines, knowing that our efforts contribute to both conservation and the tourism industry’s credibility.
GUARDIAN: What role does the Botswana Travel and Tourism Expo (BTTE) play in promoting Botswana as a key destination in the global tourism market, and how has the expo helped raise the profile of the country’s tourism industry?
NDLOVU: BTTE is a crucial platform for showcasing Botswana’s diverse tourism offerings to a global audience. It brings together industry stakeholders, facilitates networking and collaboration. The expo has significantly raised Botswana’s profile by attracting international buyers and media, thereby driving tourism growth.
GUARDIAN: How important is it for African Bush Camps to be part of the expo, and what aspects of Botswana's tourism offerings do you highlight during the event?
NDLOVU: Being part of BTTE is essential for African Bush Camps as it allows us to directly engage with potential partners and clients. We focus on highlighting Botswana’s pristine wilderness, luxury safari experiences, and our commitment to sustainability and community empowerment. This platform helps us communicate our unique value proposition to a global audience.
GUARDIAN: How has participation in the BTTE helped African Bush Camps expand its reach to international markets, and what kind of impact has it had on attracting global tourists to Botswana?
NDLOVU: Participation in BTTE has been instrumental in expanding our international reach. It has opened up opportunities for partnerships with global travel agents and tour operators, resulting in increased bookings from international tourists. The exposure has also helped us attract media attention, further boosting Botswana’s profile as a premier travel destination.
GUARDIAN: How does African Bush Camps utilize the exposure from BTTE to showcase the positive impact that tourism has on local communities, and how do you use the platform to highlight sustainable and community-based tourism initiatives?
NDLOVU: We use BTTE to highlight our community and conservation projects, demonstrating the tangible benefits of responsible tourism. Through presentations and discussions, we showcase how our initiatives support local economies, protect wildlife, and promote cultural heritage. This not only enhances our brand image but also educates stakeholders about the importance of sustainable tourism.
GUARDIAN: At BTTE, sustainability and conservation are often major talking points. How does African Bush Camps use the event to promote its conservation efforts, and how does it align with Botswana’s broader environmental goals?
NDLOVU: BTTE is a perfect venue for us to share our conservation success stories and sustainable practices. We align our messaging with Botswana’s environmental goals by emphasizing our contributions to wildlife protection, habitat preservation, and community development. This alignment reinforces the collective effort towards a sustainable tourism future.
GUARDIAN: What are your thoughts on the future of BTTE? How do you think the expo can evolve to better serve the needs of the tourism sector and contribute to the long-term success of Botswana’s tourism industry?
NDLOVU: The future of BTTE looks promising. To better serve the tourism sector, the expo can introduce more interactive sessions, digital engagement tools, and focus on emerging trends such as eco-tourism and technology in tourism. By continuously evolving, BTTE can remain a relevant and powerful platform for promoting Botswana’s tourism industry.