12 Aug 2024

In a push to enhance the nation’s reputation as a premier tourism destination, officials are calling for a collective commitment to providing exceptional service and a warm welcome to visitors. This was said by the Minister of Trade and Industry, Honourable Mmusi Kgafela, during the grand opening of the Grays Eden Sanctuary Boutique Hotel in Maun over the weekend.

Minister Kgafela emphasised the impact of excellent hospitality on the country’s tourism sector, stating that Botswana had long been recognised globally for its stunning attractions, including the Okavango Delta, the vast salt pans, and the iconic sand dunes of the Kalahari Desert.

“It is upon us as a nation to warmly welcome visitors through our rich and diverse culture and heritage sites, food, as well as our hospitality in order to maintain our status as the destination of choice,” he remarked.

The Minister underscored the importance of creating a welcoming environment to attract significant investments, such as the newly inaugurated Grays Eden Sanctuary Boutique Hotel, which is expected to enhance the tourism landscape in Maun.

Honourable Kgafela lauded the efforts of the government led by His Excellency, President Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, noting that various initiatives aimed at infrastructure development, human capital enhancement, and improved international relations were vital in positioning Botswana as a top investment destination. He pointed out that these efforts would ultimately aid local businesses in thriving and remaining competitive.

“Through the incentives provided by the government under the Botswana Investment Trade Industry (BITC), and in partnership with the Botswana Tourism Organization (BTO), we are celebrating the monumental achievement of the Grays Eden project,” he added.

Recognizing the pivotal role of BITC in attracting foreign direct investment, Minister Kgafela commended them for the contribution to the establishment of the Grays Eden hotel. He also acknowledged BTO for its efforts in positioning Botswana as a preferred tourism destination essential for attracting and retaining significant investments.

Furthermore, the Minister credited all government agencies involved in the project for their support and gave special mention to Chobe Holdings for their role in guiding the investors to ensure the sustained growth of the business.

“Your experience in the industry is unquestionable, and there could not have been a better partner than you to facilitate agreements. I assure you that the government, through my ministry and the Ministry of Environment and Tourism, stands firmly behind your investment. You have made the right choice in opting for Botswana as your investment destination,” he concluded.

Mr Kgafela said government, remained committed to ensure the prevailing laws and policies were favourable for business to thrive and urged the new hotel to support local companies to continue to being so in the value chain.

Government, he said, had taken a decision to build local capacity in sectors such as food production by putting importation control measures on basic commodities citing horticulture products and many more that the establishment would need for in its operations.

Therefore, he informed the esteemed investor of the government’s commitment to value chain development through mutual beneficiation and believed that the partnership between Grays Eden and the government would stand for a test of time and bring more opportunities for all to benefit. ENDS