Okavango Wilderness Safaris (OWS) has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Botswana’s tourism industry, pledging to drive sustainable economic development, conservation, and community impact. At an intimate stakeholder engagement event in Gaborone, OWS underscored the pivotal role of tourism in Botswana’s economic and social progress and reiterated its dedication to the industry and its broader value chain.
Addressing distinguished guests, including the Minister for State President, Honourable Moeti Mohwasa, Members of Parliament including Honourable Dumelang Saleshando, government officials, and industry stakeholders, OWS emphasised the necessity of strengthening Botswana’s tourism sector and cultivating a sustainable future.
“It is not just Wilderness that is here to stay – tourism in Botswana is here to stay,” said Okavango Wilderness Safaris Board Chairman, Kabelo Binns. “We firmly believe that the Okavango Delta, like Botswana itself, is an absolute gem – sustainable, replicable, and scalable. We all have a role to play in realising its full potential, and at Wilderness, we are fully committed to this mission, offering the unique Wilderness Way that embodies our values of botho and maitseo. Rather than looking at challenges with a “we can’t” philosophy, we look at them as opportunities and ask “can’t we?” It is possible”.
As Botswana continues to navigate an increasingly competitive global tourism landscape, OWS remains steadfast in working alongside the government and private sector to create an enabling environment for investment and growth. Recognising that tourism is a holistic value chain involving not just safari operators but also local service providers, transport sectors, and small businesses, OWS advocates for a national approach that ensures all Batswana benefit from the industry.
Speaking on the night, Caretaker Managing Director, Joe Matome, highlighted key areas that require urgent attention to maintain Botswana’s competitive edge, including streamlined lease agreements, faster visa processing, and improved infrastructure. “These are areas we can all support to ensure a stronger and even more attractive Botswana to global travellers and investors”, Joe stated. “Tourism is a major economic driver, supporting an extensive value chain, employment, infrastructure development, and foreign direct investment. Let us all work to advocate for an inclusive approach to tourism that ensures benefits extend beyond luxury safari operators to local businesses, service providers, and communities across the country”, he added.
With over four decades of experience, OWS has been at the forefront of sustainable conservation tourism, continuously investing in conservation efforts and community upliftment. OWS’s contributions to Botswana’s socio-economic fabric include:
- For every P1 that goes to investors, P5.67 is paid to the government, and P8.67 to employees.
- Over P56 million paid to local communities, including P6.4 million in 2024 alone.
- P1.3 billion spent on local suppliers, boosting Botswana’s economy.
- P1.8 billion in revenue generated for other operators through global marketing efforts.
- P1.2 million invested in boreholes for the Okavango Community Trust’s five villages.
- 76 hectares of farmland cultivated, supporting 52 farmers across six villages.
- 1096 food parcels (40 tons) distributed during the 2024/5 drought at a cost of over P650,000.
- P2 million invested in classrooms at Eretsha Village.
- Children in the Wilderness (CITW) programme: Over 2700 children engaged in Eco Clubs, 2100 camp visits facilitated, and 78 learners hosted in December 2025.
- Solar energy implemented across 10 owned and 19 marketed camps.
With a bold vision for the future, OWS is confident that its work is only just beginning. The company has earmarked over a quarter of a billion Pula for tourism infrastructure development in the next 12 months, contingent upon securing long-term lease agreements. “This will attract and sustain foreign direct investment, which in turn drives job creation and economic growth”, shared Kabelo.
Furthermore, OWS has set a new industry benchmark with the approval of a Minimum Basic Pay increase to BWP3,000-00 per month. With additional benefits, the Minimum Wage for the lowest paid staff, will be at least BWP4,000-00 per month. “We have revised our remuneration internationally effective March 2025, and we urge other industry players to follow suit. In addition, we continue to champion local talent development, boasting a workforce that is 97% Batswana. Investing in people is a key pillar of our vision for a thriving tourism industry that benefits all. We are steadfast in our belief in Botswana’s tourism potential and the country’s ability to compete on the global stage”, said Kabelo.
OWS remains committed to positioning Botswana as a world-class tourism destination that caters to a broad spectrum of visitors. This is while ensuring that conservation remains at the heart of the industry.
“Through collaboration, innovation, and sustainable tourism practices, we will continue to shape a thriving future for Botswana’s tourism sector. We are privileged to work with so many others in the tourism value chain to make this possible. We are here to stay. We are committed. We are ready to keep working and collaborating for sustainable impact”, concluded Joe.
