https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1021-3985
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ABSTRACT
Despite the burgeoning interest in cultural tourism in Botswana, its effect on traditional practices has been seldom understood. This study examined the effects of tourism development on traditional basket weaving in the Okavango Delta, Botswana. Semi-structured interviews and in-depth interviews were conducted. Data was analysed through descriptive statistics and thematically. The results depict a gradual transformation in basketry – from being a domestic utilitarian product to being a most sought after product in the tourism market. Although change was inevitable, local communities are urged to strike a balance between satisfying market demands and preserving the cultural significance of basketry.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Lorato Mochankana
Lorato Mochankana is an Economist in the Research and Financial Stability Department at Bank of Botswana. She holds Masters’ Degree in Economics from the University of Botswana. Her research interests revolve around issues of financial inclusion, financial stability, and Fintech.
Hesekia Garekae
Hesekia Garekae is a lecturer in the Department of Environmental Science at the University of Botswana. He holds a PhD in Environmental Science, Rhodes University, South Africa. His research interests intersect forests, livelihoods, and conservation.
Justice Bapadile
Justice Bapadile is a graduate of the University of Botswana
Joseph Mbaiwa
Joseph Mbaiwa is a Professor of Tourism Studies at the Okavango Research Institute (ORI), University of Botswana. He holds a PhD in Park, Recreation & Tourism Sciences, Texas A&M University, USA. Prof. Mbaiwa is the former Director of ORI. His research interests areas are in Tourism Development, Rural Livelihoods, and Community-based Natural Resource Management.