TOURISM MINISTRY TARGETS SAFARI OPERATORS CHANNELING PAYMENTS THROUGH FOREIGN ACCOUNTS.

Article By: Diana Motsu

The Ministry of Environment and Tourism says it is aware that some safari operators in Botswana are channeling guest payments through foreign bank accounts, raising concerns about the loss of tax revenue and foreign exchange.

When responding to a question in Ntlo ya Dikgosi recently, Minister Wynter Mmolotsi explained that although the practice is not always illegal, it creates problems for transparency, tax compliance, and ensuring that tourism income benefits the local economy.

He said government is reviewing the Tourism Act, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, BURS, and the Bank of Botswana, to tighten regulations. The Minister further added that the aim is to make sure all tourism payments go through local banks so that the money stays in Botswana and supports national development.