South African Airways Hosts High-Impact B2B Networking in Botswana
South African Airways (SAA) is taking bold steps to strengthen regional tourism and trade, spotlighting Botswana as a rising hub in Southern Africa. This week, the airline hosted a dynamic B2B Speed Networking Session at the Phakalane Golf Estate Hotel & Convention Centre in Gaborone, bringing together travel agents, tourism operators, and key stakeholders from across the region.
A Gateway to Growth
Welcoming delegates, Ms. Masego Matsila, SAA Sales Specialist in Botswana, emphasized the airline’s pivotal role in driving connectivity and integration. With twice-daily flights between Johannesburg and Gaborone, SAA positions the route as more than just a service—it’s a gateway to opportunity. The flights not only facilitate passenger growth but also enhance cargo movement and onward connections across Southern Africa and beyond, reinforcing the airline’s reputation as a strategic enabler of regional mobility.
Gaborone: A Capital on the Rise
In his remarks, Mr. Justice Ofentse, Acting CEO of the Botswana Tourism Organisation (BTO), praised SAA for convening such a high-impact platform. He highlighted Gaborone’s appeal as a modern, safe, and accessible capital city, perfectly suited for business, leisure, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism. What sets Gaborone apart, he noted, is its proximity to Botswana’s rich natural and cultural attractions—offering travelers the best of both worlds.
Collaboration Driving Destination Awareness
The BTO actively engaged in the speed networking sessions, using the opportunity to strengthen destination awareness and unlock new packaging opportunities. By working hand-in-hand with airline partners like SAA, Botswana is positioning itself as a competitive destination in the regional travel landscape. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to collaborative marketing strategies that stimulate demand and drive sustainable tourism growth.
Connectivity as the Cornerstone
The discussions underscored a critical truth: purposeful connectivity, underpinned by collaboration, is the cornerstone of sustained regional tourism performance. With airlines, tourism boards, and travel agents aligning their efforts, Southern Africa is poised to unlock new opportunities for both tourism and trade.
