Africa-Press – Botswana. The introduction of a local per diem for civil servants last year has sparked a heated debate regarding its impact on the hospitality industry.
While some view the incentive as a well-deserved benefit for employees, others criticise it as poorly conceived, arguing that it may harm local businesses. Ms Gonnamang Sethodi, owner of the Senthaga Guest House in Maun, expressed support for the per diem, stating that opponents lacked a solid basis for their arguments.
“Employees are entitled to decide where to lodge during official trips,” she said.
She highlighted that well-established hotels had benefited from imprests, another financial support option for civil servants, but emphasised the importance of the local per diem for smaller accommodations.
Sethodi pointed out that the government has implemented policies aimed at supporting small businesses, and the local per diem was one such initiative. “This not only helps employees but also benefits local entrepreneurs,” she added.
Conversely, Ms Ratanauka Tjinyeka, front office manager at Cresta Maun and Riley’s Hotel, voiced a differing opinion. She said that the per diem primarily benefited a select few and lacked accountability, ultimately disadvantaging the hospitality sector.
“Despite discounts offered by our hotels, many civil servants still choose cheaper alternatives, which undermines our businesses,” she stated.
Ms Tjinyeka called on the government to reconsider the per diem facility, highlighting the need for a solution that supports both civil servants and the hospitality industry. In response to the ongoing debate, the government has indicated its intention to review the local per diem policy, leaving many stakeholders awaiting a resolution.
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