The government is actively reaching out to potential aviation investors, encouraging them to invest in the country’s air connectivity as part of its broader economic diversification efforts. This initiative comes amid challenges in diamond sales, which have traditionally driven the nation’s development.
During the ongoing AVIADEV Africa 2026 conference in Gaborone this morning, Vice President Ndaba Gaolathe emphasised the importance of expanding the country’s infrastructure to unlock new growth sectors. “For decades, diamonds have funded our infrastructure, public services, and stability,” he said. “But the next chapter requires broader diversification, deeper competitiveness, and stronger integration with regional and global markets.”
He highlighted the strategic role of aviation infrastructure in this transition. “When we develop Maun International Airport—the gateway to the Okavango Delta—we are not simply building a terminal; we are executing a transformation,” Gaolathe explained. “These airport infrastructures will further unlock growth potential in sectors like tourism and trade.”
The Vice President underscored that air connectivity is central to Botswana’s transformation agenda, not just a peripheral aspect. “Being landlocked does not mean being isolated,” he asserted. “Aviation is the most direct instrument through which we become land-linked rather than landlocked.”
Gaolatlhe also stressed the importance of positioning Botswana as a familiar and accessible destination for African partners. “Before attracting global investors, we must be a country that our African partners know well, visit regularly, and conduct business with comfortably,” he said. Hosting AVIADEV is a deliberate signal in this regard. “We are not asking how many carriers can reach us,” he added. “We are asking how connectivity can be structured to serve trade, tourism, investment, MICE, and enterprise development—starting within Africa and extending to the world.”
He pointed out that expanding air freight capabilities is not a luxury but a necessity in participating in modern value chains. “Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa have established themselves in the fresh flower export market to the EU—an entirely air freight-dependent trade,” Gaolathe noted.
The government’s commitment to economic transformation was also highlighted through the Botswana Economic Transformation Programme, which aims to create new engines of growth in the country.
Meanwhile, Keoagile Atamelang, Assistant Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, challenged potential airline partners. “Botswana remains open to business,” he stated. “The government is ready to share data that will deliver mutual value and long-term growth.” He emphasised the importance of collaboration with private sector and tourism partners, saying, “Your collaboration is indispensable, and every successful route is built on shared purpose and commitment.”
Atamelang called on conference attendees to foster meaningful engagement and enduring partnerships, urging them to champion new airline routes and position Africa at the heart of global aviation connectivity.
Expressing gratitude for the event’s successful organisation, Thuto Toise, CEO of the Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana, affirmed the country’s dedication to collaboration. “Your work is essential to passenger journeys, network efficiency, and the development of reliable and competitive air services,” he said. He challenged participants to develop new route networks by the conference’s end, emphasising that the presence of airline representatives, destinations, airports, and partners is vital for advancing air connectivity across Africa.
This gathering, attracting senior representatives from airlines, airports, tourism authorities, and aviation service providers from Africa and beyond, aims to strengthen collaboration and unlock new opportunities. It is a platform focused on overcoming structural challenges and harnessing the growth potential of the aviation sector in Africa.
