Botswana launches air access project to enhance connectivity
Pauline Dikuelo | Tuesday August 27, 2024 11:20
The Botswana Air Access project, as it is known, is a collaborative national destination initiative focused on improving international air access to the country and aims to positively impact tourism, investment and trade. The project is led by the Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana (CAAB) in collaboration with the Botswana Tourism Organisation (BTO), the Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC), Business Botswana (BB), Travel Agents Association of Botswana (TAABOT) and the Hospitality and Tourism Association of Botswana (HATAB). The partners recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to initialise the project.
Speaking at the MoU signing, CAAB CEO, Dr Bao Mosinyi said Botswana's strategic location and its potential as a high-potential business hub has not gone unnoticed by investors. He added the best way to accelerate the country's development is to enhance its connectivity and embrace collaboration with various stakeholders. For their part, CAAB officials emphasised the critical role of air connectivity in fulfilling the country’s economic and tourism ambitions. 'For Botswana to achieve its full potential, we need to improve air connectivity not just within Africa but also with the rest of the world,' spokesperson for the air transport regulator said. 'The continent's growth will increasingly be facilitated by aviation. Supporting and sustaining existing air routes, expanding services, and growing our network are essential steps in this process.' In a bid to ensure that the project is a success, Botswana has engaged the services of consultancy firm Helm Grove Advisors.
CEO of Helm Grove Advisors, Tim Harries, stressed the importance of thorough preparation as Botswana enters the competitive global market. 'When Botswana presents itself at global routes forums, it will be competing with other destinations that have a clear value proposition. 'We’ve already started work, engaging with 10 airlines and receiving significant interest, particularly from African carriers. 'Our focus now is on understanding the underlying data and ensuring that these flights are fully booked,' he said. Harries also highlighted the need to create domestic support to sustain these new routes and maximise their potential impact on Botswana’s economy. The Botswana Air Access project is poised to be a game-changer for the country. By unlocking Botswana's economic growth through enhanced air connectivity, the project aims to secure a brighter future for the nation in the global market.