Tourism’s Economic Impact Highlighted at FNB Botswana Budget Review Seminar. First National Bank of Botswana (FNB Botswana) hosted the Budget Review Seminar 2025 at the Gaborone International Convention Centre (GICC) under the theme “Pioneering Economic Revitalisation 2025 and Beyond.” Among the key speakers were Botswana Tourism Organisation (BTO) CEO, Ms. Keitumetse Setlang, and Acting Executive Manager-Investment and Product Development, Mr. Shato Lopang.
Ms. Setlang emphasized tourism’s significant role in Botswana’s economic growth and highlighted BTO’s collaboration with local communities. She pointed to co-owned properties such as Goo Moremi Gorge and Lepokole Nature Reserve, where BTO holds a 51% stake, as examples of community partnerships. She also encouraged increased private sector involvement in joint ventures to further develop tourism in Botswana.
Mr. Lopang provided an overview of the sector’s economic contribution, stating that tourism generated BWP 32.8 billion in 2023, accounting for 12.1% of the GDP. The industry is projected to grow by 4.3% annually, reaching BWP 56.95 billion between 2024 and 2034. He outlined BTO’s key priorities for 2025–2026, including:
- Diversifying tourism value chains to enhance citizen participation
- Promoting eco-tourism to support environmental conservation
- Leveraging tourism for sustainable economic growth
Additionally, Mr. Lopang discussed major investment projects, including the planned tourism precinct in Gaborone’s Block 7 area. Covering 81.15 hectares, the development will feature:
- Two hotels
- A conference center
- Office spaces and shopping facilities
- Bistros and a recreational park
This initiative aims to strengthen Botswana’s tourism infrastructure and attract both local and international visitors. The seminar underscored tourism’s expanding role in the economy and the ongoing efforts to position Botswana as a competitive tourism destination.
