XAXABA RESIDENTS DECRY EXCLUSION FROM TOURISM INDUSTRY

Article By: Solomon Tjinyeka

Residents of Xaxaba settlement have expressed frustration over being excluded from the tourism industry, despite living near some of the most prominent lodges in the Okavango Delta.

During a recent kgotla meeting addressed by Maun North Member of Parliament Dumelang Saleshando, local resident Teko Ketogetswe accused tourism operators of consistently hiring outsiders rather than locals.

He said they are surrounded by high-end lodges, yet the locals remain unemployed. He also criticized the companies’ corporate social responsibility efforts, describing them as superficial saying they show up only during Christmas with food hampers, but offer nothing in terms of real development or sustainable jobs.

In response, Saleshando urged residents to organize themselves and take initiative in tapping into the economic potential of their surroundings. He highlighted the area's rich prospects in cultural and eco-tourism and encouraged the community to take ownership of local economic opportunities.