05 Nov 2025

In an effort to meaningfully contribute toward economic growth and diversification, the Ministry of Environment and Tourism has aligned its NDP 12 Public Investment Programmes with national aspirations particularly the goals of economic growth, job creation and sustainable development.

Minister Wynter Mmolotsi informed Parliament on Tuesday that the ministry’s portfolio was both ambitious and transformative, reflecting a clear commitment to inclusive growth and positioning Botswana as a globally competitive and sustainable tourism destination.

He thus pleaded with legislators to approve the proposed P3.9 billion to form part of NDP 12 to resource the ministry in delivering on it’s mandate.

To advance this mandate, Mr Mmolotsi said the national tourism strategy and master plan was being executed, supported by key operational initiative outlined in the revised tourism policy, with the total estimated cost required amounting to P819.7 million.

He said the plan was to expand tourism offerings and enhance visitors’ experience.

Mr Mmolotsi said the initiative would diversify the tourism product, stimulate private sector growth and create jobs, particularly in rural communities where attractions were abound.

To support both tourism and environmental management, the minister indicated that the ministry would invest P1.6 billion in infrastructure to strengthen institutional capacity and enhance regional competitiveness.

He also noted that efforts to address issues of re-arming wildlife anti poaching unit were ongoing following the approval of the initiative by Parliament in April 2025. 

In relation to environmental protection, Mr Mmolotsi stated that climate resilience and pollution reduction remained critical to sustainable development hence a total of P292.6 million was required for the programme. He said the cost for environmental protection had been increased by P12 million to include the establishment of the Department of Community Based Natural Resource Management.

Mr Mmolotsi indicated that in an effort to safeguard the country’s ecosystem, the ministry would implement the restoration of degraded landscapes and management of invasive spices as well as implement early warning systems and develop strategic ecosystem management tools. ENDS