20 Oct 2026

The North West region is exploring pairing tourism and sport, to create opportunities for women and girls by identifying a sporting activity that would lure more visitors to Maun.

To achieve this, stakeholders have proposed to form a working group that would turn the idea into reality.

The idea was birthed during a community engagement workshop themed: Sport Tourism and its Benefits to Women, organised by Women and Sport Botswana (WASBO) in Maun.

The Hospitality and Tourism Association of Botswana tour operators representative, Sethunya Botshabelo, stated that Maun was widely recognised as the gateway to the famous Okavango Delta and a centre of Botswana’s tourism industry but the country’s tourism story could extend beyond the experiences for which it was already known.

She said international clients often asked if it was worth spending time in Maun and what was there beyond the wildlife. 

Botshabelo suggested that a formed working group could pilot one practical event where women participated, something achievable and its reputation built over time.

In addition, she said it could also help with timing since tourism had a peak season.

The activity, she said should respect natural environment and cultural heritage which were central to Maun appeal. 

Botshelo said sport tourism must protect rather than undermine the existing assets because Maun sat on the edge of the Okavango Delta, a protected UNSECO World Heritage Site.

Furthermore, she explained that a well organised event could attract athletes, officials, supporters and families who would need accommodation, meals, transport, cultural experiences and other services.

“Maun already has a strong tourism identity and we now have an opportunity to connect that identity more deliberately with sport and women empowerment. 

We need practical partnerships, fair access to opportunities and consistent attention to safety and quality. Let us build events where women are not only present but are competing, earning, owning businesses and helping to lead,” she added.

She also highlighted that the opportunity was not just to bring more people to Maun but to ensure that their presence created value for local communities particularly women.

Botshabelo also stated that women should not be visible only as volunteers or supporters but should have opportunities to earn, compete and influence decisions. 

WASBO chairperson, Keenese Katisenge-Tizhani supported the idea, noting that Maun had the potential to host sport tourism events supported by its status as the gateway to the delta, and eventually contribute to development of the region.

She urged all sporting bodies to work jointly with the tourism sector, the business community, local leadership and other stakeholders to strategise on the envisaged event which could promote sport as an economic driver and empowerment tool.

WASBO is ready to support and ensure women participation and empowerment. ENDS