BTO Expands Dam Tourism to Enhance Botswana’s Travel Appeal. The Botswana Tourism Organisation (BTO) is working to diversify the country’s tourism industry by developing dam-based attractions. Plans are underway to introduce tourism facilities at key dams, including Gaborone, Letsibogo, Thune, and Shashe. These developments will feature conference venues, accommodation, picnic spots, and recreational activities such as boat cruises and leisure experiences.
Shatho Lopang, Acting Executive Manager of Investment and Product Development at BTO, shared this initiative during the 2025 FNBB National Budget Review.According to Lopang, BTO has signed seven leases with local investors, granting them two-year development covenants to establish various tourism activities around these dams.
In the Gaborone Dam area, a specific site has been designated for the Old Naledi, Babusi, and Bontleng communities. Efforts are being made to assist these communities in setting up a trust that will oversee the planned developments, ensuring local participation and benefits.
By expanding dam tourism, BTO aims to enhance Botswana’s appeal as a travel destination while creating economic opportunities for local businesses and communities.
