ADDRESSING LIMITATIONS OF THE DIGITALIZATION OF THE PRIVATE SECTOR IN BOTSWANA

The thesis contributes to the Government of Botswana’s effort to roll out the digital transformation strategy under the Ministry of Communications, Knowledge and Technology.

Abstract

The thesis  took a deep dive into the tourism sector to identify challenges that are faced by entrepreneurs in digitizing their products and services for the entrepreneurs.  The study utilized both qualitative and quantitative research approaches, with the use of a structured online questionnaire for the target group. About forty (40) companies were invited to participate in the study online, whereas twenty-one (21) managed to participate.

The study determined the level of uptake for e-Governance service in Botswana by the participating tourism companies. It showed that tourism visa, e-tax and company registration are the most used e-Government services. The majority of the participants lamented poor internet connectivity as a bottleneck to the digitalization process. Participants believe that digitalization is part of transforming a business. In order to mitigate the biggest challenge of internet connectivity, companies proposed an improvement in the connectivity by connection of high-speed internet. They also added that the Botswana Telecommunications Corporation (BTC) has to engage private companies and assist them with high quality internet.

The tourism sector would like digitalization of value chain activities from reservations, bookings, checking in and out, procurement and selling of products and services. Additionally, participants noted that the digitalization of regulatory services such as land application and its conversion, culture and lifestyle as well as criminal matters in tourism areas need to be considered as part of the digital transformation.