Mmegi

Tourism sector pushes back on 24-hr economy plan

Serene: Tourism operators say a 24-hour economy would upend the industry PIC: PETER WALTON
Serene: Tourism operators say a 24-hour economy would upend the industry PIC: PETER WALTON

Tourism players have voiced strong reservations to government’s plans for a 24-hour economy, noting that round-the-clock alcohol-related activities in particular clash with the industry’s selling points.

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.

Editor's Comment
Don't let FMD outbreak drag on

Acting Agriculture Minister, Edwin Dikoloti, is right in saying opening an export-ready facility whilst Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) is still spreading would risk getting the whole country blacklisted before a single carcass leaves the door.A ban like that would break the already stressed nation. So, the postponement, painful as it is, is the right thing to do. The local economy is being squeezed from both ends. FMD has already slammed the door...

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