Tourism sector pushes back on 24-hr economy plan
Friday, May 08, 2026 | 240 Views |
Serene: Tourism operators say a 24-hour economy would upend the industry PIC: PETER WALTON
The recent Hospitality and Tourism Association of Botswana (HATAB) conference held in Kasane provided tourism players with their first opportunity to engage government on its plans for a 24-hour economy. Speaking at the conference, Assistant Minister of Trade and Entrepreneurship Baratiwa Mathoothe confirmed that government is forging ahead with a 24-hour economy, piloting it through the six-to-six alcohol sector.
Speaking at the conference, tourism operators opposed the government’s plans, particularly the changes around alcohol.
Whilst the project received mixed reactions from members of the public, the project is indeed a welcome development, which needs to be implemented as soon as possible. Many shared their opinion, with those against the project decrying that if implemented, it will kill the already struggling public transport industry.Many countries around the world have state-run public transport, and those who have travelled to such countries will give testimony...