BTO Strengthens Botswana’s Tourism Standards with BECS Assessors Training in Maun

BTO Strengthens Botswana’s Tourism Standards with BECS Assessors Training in Maun. The Botswana Tourism Organisation (BTO) has taken another bold step toward enhancing the nation’s tourism excellence and sustainability with the launch of the Botswana Ecotourism Certification System (BECS) Assessors Training Workshop at Maun Lodge.

The training marks the start of a pilot phase running from 19–28 October 2025, where selected tourism enterprises, beginning with Maun Lodge, will test the revised BECS framework. The goal is to ensure the system’s practicality and alignment with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) standards, reinforcing Botswana’s position as a top ecotourism destination.

Mr. Thatayaone Mmapatsi, Tourism Development Manager at BTO’s Maun Office, highlighted the importance of this initiative during his address, noting that the draft Botswana Ecotourism Standards for Accommodation and Ecotours are a pivotal step in advancing the country’s sustainability agenda. He shared that these standards are being prepared for GSTC review and formal recognition, which would further elevate Botswana’s tourism reputation on the global stage.

The training also provides an opportunity for local tourism professionals to contribute to shaping certification tools that promote responsible tourism practices, environmental protection, and community inclusivity.

Complementing this effort, BTO is also preparing for the BOS ISO 45001:2018 Occupational Health & Safety Management Systems (OHSMS) Training scheduled for 10–14 November and 24–28 November 2025. Together, these initiatives represent BTO’s commitment to continuous improvement in quality assurance and sustainable tourism development.

Through strategic programs like BECS, BTO continues to empower Botswana’s tourism enterprises to meet global standards while ensuring long-term socio-economic growth rooted in environmental stewardship.