Botswana’s star shines bright at Africa’s Travel Indaba
Sharon Mathala | Tuesday May 20, 2025 13:47
The Botswana Tourism stall stood in the middle of the hall filled with 27 other participating countries, notably the blue, black, and white flag under the stewardship of Botswana Tourism pavilion buzzed with activity.
More than just a stand, it was a portal into the soul of Botswana's tourism and when The Monitor team visited the stall it was notable that it drew in curious minds and adventurous hearts, who wanted collaboration and most importantly to visit Botswana.
Representatives from 39 of Botswana’s leading tourism companies, spanning boutique safari lodges to medium-scale tour operators, captivated delegates from all over the globe. The Botswana delegation came armed, not only with brochures and business cards, but with stories, experiences, and an unmistakable sense of pride in national heritage, The Monitor observed during the stall visit.
The 2025 instalment of the African Travel Indaba themed 'Unlimited Africa' celebrated the continent’s boundless potential and Botswana seized the opportunity to showcase its unique brand of eco-conscious luxury and untamed beauty.
According to South African Tourism, the Indaba brought in R574 million in direct economic impact to the city of Durban, whilst creating over 2,000 jobs, many for local youth and township entrepreneurs. For Botswana, the value lies in the connections, hundreds of business-to-business meetings held over the three days ignited partnerships that are expected to bear fruit in the coming tourism seasons.
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille, highlighted tourism’s power to transform economies and bridge communities. Like South Africa, Botswana’s tourism success hinges on empowering local communities. The Indaba echoed this priority, offering exposure to emerging tourism voices from across the continent.
From face-to-face networking to forging new trade linkages, Botswana’s tourism operators left Durban energised and optimistic. As one local exhibitor put it, “We didn’t just market ourselves but we marketed our country, we sold the Botswana story”.