Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainable Management Practices in the Okavango Delta, Botswana

Abstract

In Botswana, the tourism industry is mainly concentrated around the Okavango Delta, a wetland endowed with a variety of natural resources. Despite this considerable presence, the sector has failed to make significant contributions to rural development in Botswana, particularly in the Okavango Delta. Although there is increasing competition and conflict over natural resources and biodiversity loss, there is a dearth of studies that assess pro-environmental behaviours and corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices of tourism businesses. Using Maun as a case study, this chapter assesses pro-environmental behaviours and CSR practices of 34 tourism establishments. Results indicate that there is limited implementation of CSR practices and links between businesses and communities are generally weak. There is a need to strengthen this relationship and ensure that new establishments are eco-certified and have CSR plans before they start operating.