In order to enhance connectivity and economic opportunities, the government has announced the opening of the Sedudu-Ngoma transit route through Chobe National Park for 24-hour access, effective 1st April 2025. The announcement was made by Wynter Mmolotsi, Minister of Environment and Tourism, during a parliamentary address earlier this month.
The Sedudu-Ngoma transit route, which connects Chobe West to Chobe East, has historically been restricted to daylight hours due to wildlife conservation and safety concerns. However, after extensive consultations with local communities and stakeholders, the government has decided to lift these restrictions, marking a significant milestone for residents, commuters, and tourism operators in the region.
For the residents of Kasane and surrounding villages such as Mabele, Kavimba, and others in the Chobe Enclave, the 24-hour access to the transit route is a game-changer. Previously, the restricted operating hours—from 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM during the dry season and 5:30 AM to 7:00 PM in the wet season—posed significant challenges for commuters, particularly those traveling for work, school, or medical emergencies. Mmolotsi emphasized that the decision reflects the government’s commitment to upholding the constitutional right to freedom of movement. “This is testament that as the new Government in the new Botswana, we are a human rights-centric Government and consider the voices and pleas of Batswana to ensure they live their lives freely,” he stated. The move is expected to foster greater economic participation for residents of Chobe West, enabling them to access opportunities in Kasane and beyond without the constraints of time-bound travel.
The opening of the transit route is also a significant win for the tourism industry, particularly luxury safari camps such as Ngoma Safari Lodge, owned by Machaba Safaris. Located within the Chobe National Park, Ngoma Lodge has long been a premier destination for travelers seeking an immersive wildlife experience. However, the previous restrictions on transit hours often complicated logistics for guests and staff traveling to and from the lodge. With 24-hour access, Ngoma Lodge and other tourism operators in the area can now offer more flexible travel options for visitors, enhancing the overall guest experience. This development is expected to further solidify Botswana’s reputation as a world-class safari destination.
While the decision to open the route 24/7 has been widely celebrated, it has not been made without careful consideration of the potential risks. Chobe National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including the largest concentration of elephants in Africa, as well as buffalo, zebra, and antelope species. The park’s proximity to international borders also makes it vulnerable to wildlife-related crimes such as poaching. To mitigate these risks, the Ministry of Environment and Tourism has outlined a comprehensive plan that includes increased patrols, improved road signage, and public sensitization campaigns on wildlife safety protocols. “We will put in place measures that will facilitate free movement of people while minimizing risks associated with this initiative,” Mmolotsi assured.
