6 June 2026
Botswana has taken a significant step toward reshaping its economic future with the ground breaking of the New Botswana City in Gaborone, a landmark development expected to promote investment, create jobs, and accelerate economic diversification.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Advocate Duma Boko described the project as more than a construction initiative, saying it forms part of a broader national strategy to transform Botswana into a resilient, competitive, and innovation-driven economy. He noted that the country must move beyond traditional economic dependence by embracing a development model built on diversification, digital innovation, and inclusivity.
According to President Boko, sustainable economic growth requires strong foundations, including serviced land, climate-resilient infrastructure, effective institutions, and strategic partnerships capable of attracting investment, technology, and expertise. He emphasised that the New Botswana City is designed to unlock opportunities for citizens, stimulate entrepreneurship, attract international investors, and strengthen Botswana’s position as a regional centre for trade and commerce.
A major highlight of the project is its employment potential. Speaking on behalf of the Botswana Development Corporation (BDC), Chief Executive Officer, Oteng Keabetswe said the development is expected to generate between 14,000 and 21,000 jobs during the construction phase. Once fully operational, the project could support between 25,000 and 37,500 jobs, including both direct and indirect employment opportunities.
He added that the benefits would extend far beyond construction, creating lasting economic value and thousands of permanent jobs across multiple sectors. Keabetswe also outlined the project’s ownership structure, highlighting BDC’s commitment to transparency. He explained that BDC has contributed land valued at approximately P198 million as part of its partnership with ALBADDAD Group. The corporation currently holds a 5% equity stake and is exploring opportunities to increase its participation in the development.
The 126-hectare project will include an international convention and exhibition centre, hospitality facilities, commercial developments, retail spaces, and supporting infrastructure. Planning processes are already well advanced, with the master plan completed and environmental assessments finalised.
Meanwhile, Minister of Trade and Entrepreneurship Tiroeaone Ntsima described the New Botswana City as a strategic investment platform aligned with Vision 2036 and the Economic Transformation Programme. He said the project demonstrates how strong collaboration between government and the private sector can stimulate industrial growth, attract investment, and create sustainable opportunities for Batswana.
As construction begins, the New Botswana City stands as a bold symbol of Botswana’s ambition to build a diversified, technology-driven, and globally competitive economy for future generations.
Source: BWgovernment via Facebook
