President Masisi calls for a world-class service culture
27 Apr 2024
Players in the tourism sector have been urged to spearhead efforts to enhance productivity levels and instill a culture of world-class service.
President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi said this during the recent Hospitality and Tourism Association of Botswana (HATAB) conference in Maun, held under the theme, Advancing Towards a World-Class Tourism Investment Climate to Create Jobs. He emphasized the importance of offering exceptional customer service with Botho to both local and international guests in hotels, lodges, camps, and restaurants.
Dr Masisi highlighted that Vision 2036 placed a strong emphasis on productivity, essential for maintaining international competitiveness and achieving success. He also stressed the need for tough decision-making and establishing clear outcomes for sustainable economic development through a coordinated National Transformation Strategy (NTS).
The President expressed satisfaction with the tourism sector's recovery from the impact of COVID-19, noting that the country received received a total of 248 946 international visitors during the second quarter of 2022.
“These represented 88.2 per cent of total non-citizen arrivals (282 220) the bulk of whom emanated from the SADC sub-region. In-transit tourists represented the highest proportion of tourists, at 47.6 per cent (99 986) followed by business tourists at 19.9 per cent (41 791) of all the tourist arrivals. All we have to do is to maintain the momentum and scale up the performance,” he added.
Therefore, he encouraged industry leaders to focus on improving air connectivity to facilitate the movement of tourists.
Dr Masisi commended Ethiopian Airlines for expanding its routes, which would benefit the tourism sector. He said government, through the Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana, to attract more long-haul carriers to enhance tourism growth and improve travel experiences for passengers.
Furthermore, the President mentioned plans to establish a Botswana Economic Development Board to address regulatory challenges faced by investors, including those in the tourism industry. The board aims to attract investment, improve the business climate, and promote Botswana's strengths for global trade.
Dr Masisi outlined the board's responsibilities, including addressing licensing delays, permits, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) approvals, and lease concessions to enhance the business environment and encourage investment. The overall goal is to position Botswana as a premier destination for business and tourism, fostering a conducive climate for commercial activities. ends
|
ReplyForward
|
Source : BOPA
Author : Esther Mmolai
Location : MAUN
Event : HATAB conference
Date : 27 Apr 2024
Related News
29 Apr 2025
29 Apr 2025
centenarian hails peaceful transition
29 Apr 2025
MVA educates men on responsible driving
29 Apr 2025
Masope residents appeal for recognition
29 Apr 2025
Mohwasa to officiate during May day
29 Apr 2025