Agriculture–Tourism Linkages in Botswana: Evidence from the Safari Lodge Accommodation Sector

Abstract

Tourism researchers are increasingly recognising that strengthened linkages between the sectors of tourism and agriculture are significant for maximising local multipliers and especially for pro-poor impacts. This article examines the linkages between the tourism and agriculture sectors in Botswana using evidence gathered from the country’s growing safari lodge accommodation sector. The findings reveal limited local linkages between agriculture and tourism, and instead the existence of high levels of food imports from neighbouring South Africa. Multiple and coordinated policy interventions are required to address a range of barriers that are identifi ed which inhibit local backward linkages.