Cresta Marakanelo Limited (CML) has officially opened Ku Muzi Boma at Cresta Mowana Safari Resort & Spa, ushering in a new chapter for the Chobe tourism experience; one rooted in cultural heritage, authentic storytelling and immersive experiences designed to encourage longer stays in the region.
The new Boma brings together Botswana cuisine, music, dance, engagements, and entertainment in an immersive cultural dining experience designed for both Cresta Mowana guests and visitors staying elsewhere in Kasane. CML Managing Director Mokwena Morulane said the investment reflects a deliberate evolution in the Group’s growth strategy – from predominantly providing accommodation to developing experiences capable of increasing the economic value generated by tourism.
“Our strategy is no longer centred only on providing accommodation. We want to create memorable and authentic experiences that encourage visitors to stay longer, spend more and develop a deeper connection with Botswana,” Morulane said.
“Ku Muzi Boma represents a deliberate move from simply providing rooms and meals to creating complete destination experiences.” The launch comes as CML takes pride in curating unique experiences for leisure at Cresta Mowana, underscoring the company’s long-term confidence in Kasane, Chobe and Botswana’s tourism sector.
FROM SAFARI DESTINATION TO A RICHER CHOBE EXPERIENCE
While Chobe is internationally renowned for wildlife and natural beauty, Ku Muzi Boma has been developed around the proposition that the region’s people, cuisine, stories and cultural heritage can become an equally compelling part of the visitor experience. The Boma combines local cuisine with music, dance and storytelling and is intended to strengthen Cresta Mowana as a destination where guests can stay, dine, relax, explore and connect with local culture.
The Minister of Environment and Tourism, Hon. Wynter Boipuso Mmolotsi, described the development as an important investment in cultural tourism and Botswana’s drive to diversify its tourism offering beyond its traditional strengths in wildlife and nature.“Today marks more than the opening of a new tourism facility. It marks the introduction of a unique cultural experience that enriches the tourism offering of Kasane and the greater Chobe Region,” the Minister said.
The Minister noted that modern travellers increasingly seek immersive experiences that connect them with the people, history and traditions of the destinations they visit, positioning Ku Muzi Boma as a platform through which Botswana’s culture can be shared, celebrated and preserved.
GETTING TOURISTS TO STAY LONGER – AND SPEND MORE
At the heart of the investment is a broader economic ambition: increasing the value generated by every visitor to Chobe. CML believes that expanding the range of experiences available in Kasane can encourage tourists to add another evening to their itineraries, with the resulting spend flowing beyond hotels to tour operators, transport providers, suppliers, artisans, performers and surrounding communities.
“Our goal is therefore not simply to increase room nights. It is to increase the overall economic value generated by every visitor to the Chobe region,” Morulane said. The Minister echoed this outlook, saying attractions such as Ku Muzi Boma could encourage visitors to “stay longer, spend more, and explore a wider range of experiences”, with increased visitor activity benefiting hotels, lodges, safari camps, tour operators, transport providers and small businesses.
He further encouraged hotels, lodges, safari operators and Destination Management Companies to incorporate Ku Muzi Boma into their tourism packages, arguing that Chobe has an opportunity to position itself not only as one of Africa’s leading wildlife destinations but also as a hub for authentic cultural experiences.
COMMUNITY AT THE CENTRE OF THE MODEL
CML has positioned community participation as central to the Ku Muzi Boma model, with opportunities envisaged for local performers, cultural groups, suppliers, farmers, artisans and young people. Morulane said the community should not be regarded merely as a beneficiary of tourism activity, but as a partner in creating and sustaining the experience.
“The community remains the greatest stakeholder in the Ku Muzi Boma project. The Boma draws its identity, authenticity and long-term value from the people and culture of the Chobe region.”
CML intends to measure the Boma’s success not only through its financial performance, but also through the opportunities and value it creates for surrounding communities. The company has committed to strengthening local participation as the project grows.
The Minister said this approach aligns with Botswana’s ambition for a more inclusive tourism economy, providing opportunities for local artists, performers, craftspeople, suppliers and entrepreneurs to participate directly in the tourism value chain.
“Ku Muzi Boma also places cultural preservation within Botswana’s broader tourism growth story. Through food, music, dance and storytelling, CML wants the Boma to provide a commercially sustainable platform through which local traditions and creative talent can continue to thrive. Culture should not simply be displayed or observed. It should be experienced, respected, supported and passed on to future generations,” Morulane concluded.