BTO Strengthens Ties with Mababe Community Trust on Tourism Development

BTO Strengthens Ties with Mababe Community Trust on Tourism Development. The Botswana Tourism Organisation (BTO) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening community-driven tourism by engaging with the Mababe Zokotsama Community Trust to discuss opportunities and challenges within the NG 41 tourism concession.

The meeting, held with the Trust Board and village leadership led by Chief Kgosimontle and his deputy Mr. Rothang, focused on governance, lease renewals, stakeholder relations, and the implications of the recently passed Community-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) Bill. These discussions are seen as vital in ensuring that community-led tourism initiatives remain sustainable while attracting investment.

BTO was represented by Mr. Kgotso Miles Ollyn from its Executive Management and Mr. Thatayaone Mmapatsi, Tourism Development Manager for Maun. They were joined by the CBNRM Office and the Ngami Technical Advisory Committee, highlighting the collaborative nature of tourism development in the region.

For Botswana entrepreneurs and investors, the engagement signals a stronger emphasis on governance and accountability within community trusts, which play a pivotal role in concession management. Improved structures are expected to boost investor confidence, opening doors for partnerships in eco-tourism, hospitality, and related value chains.

In his closing remarks, Chief Kgosimontle stressed the importance of balancing community priorities with investor expectations. He encouraged the Trust to embrace innovative and agile business models that prioritize citizen empowerment and ensure local communities benefit from the tourism economy.

The focus on benefit-driven negotiations reflects a growing push for inclusive tourism development, where communities, government, and private investors share value. For businesses seeking entry into Botswana’s tourism sector, opportunities are expanding as governance frameworks strengthen and partnerships between communities and industry stakeholders evolve.