08 Nov 2017

Minister of Environment, Tourism and Wildlife, Mr Tshekedi Khama has said tourism sector stands to replace diamonds as the economic mainstay.

Speaking at the De Beers Banquet on November 7, Minister Tshekedi said diamonds and tourism should had been brought together to drive the economy but said it was not late to do so.

He said sooner or later, tourism would replace diamonds as a major contributor to economic growth.

The minister said the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) requirement should not be seen as a challenge, as illustrated by the BCL mine in Selebi Phikwe where it was disregarded.

He however said they have a plan to rectify the situation, working together with the Ministry of Mineral Resources, Green Technology and Energy Security.

The minister said the country owes its allegiance to mother earth but “will deal a blow if we don’t listen”.

Minister Tshekedi said the future of sustainable development lies in sustainable tourism.

He called upon Batswana to conserve the environment for the benefit of future generations.

Meanwhile, the minister said the spoils of Orapa and Jwaneng kimberlites have sustained the economy which had seen Botswana reach a middle income status.

He said there were no apologies for Botswana to be a middle income country, although it worked against it when it sourced funds from international donors.

Minister Tshekedi said Batswana are looked differently because they are perceived to be the privileged ones but warned that they are doomed if this becomes their culture. ENDS