8 July 2026
MBABANE– Eswatini and Botswana are in advanced discussions to establish a direct air link between the two countries, a move expected to boost regional connectivity, trade, tourism and investment.
The proposed route has gained momentum following strategic engagements between the Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana (CAAB) and representatives from Eswatini Air during the 10th edition of AviaDev Africa 2026, Africa’s leading aviation route development conference, held in Botswana on June 11.
The conference brought together more than 560 delegates representing over 110 airlines, airports, tourism authorities and government institutions from across the continent to explore opportunities for expanding Africa’s aviation network.
The planned direct service is expected to significantly improve travel between Eswatini and Botswana, reducing travel times for business people, tourists and investors while strengthening economic ties between the two Southern African nations.
Business Botswana, a strategic partner of AviaDev Africa 2026, said the conference provided a platform to forge new partnerships, unlock new routes and position Botswana as a regional gateway for business and travel. Through its Transport Sector, led by Sector Chairperson Mathew Wiggett, Business Botswana said it was engaging aviation stakeholders to address regulatory challenges, improve air connectivity and create an enabling environment for business growth, competitiveness and regional integration.
The organisation said it remains committed to championing reforms that will strengthen Botswana’s position as a leading regional aviation and business hub. Officially opening the conference, Botswana’s Vice President and Minister of Finance, Ndaba N. Gaolathe, underscored the importance of improving connectivity across Africa.
“People in Africa should know each other. It is only when we know each other well that we find reasons and opportunities to do business and trade with one another. That is how we connect ourselves by connecting Africa first,” he said.
His remarks reflected the conference’s broader objective of strengthening continental links that promote trade, tourism, investment and shared economic prosperity. The growing cooperation between Eswatini and Botswana also builds on existing regional aviation partnerships. Earlier this year, senior executives from the Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana attended the Southern African Development Community Aviation Safety Organisation (SASO) Civil Aviation Committee meeting in Eswatini.
The Botswana delegation was led by CAAB Chief Executive Officer Captain Thuto Toise and included Director of Flight Safety Oversight Christopher Ferguson and Chief Legal Officer Charity Mahube. The meeting, hosted in Eswatini, reaffirmed both countries’ commitment to strengthening aviation safety oversight and regional cooperation.
Should the direct route materialise, it would mark another milestone in Southern Africa’s efforts to improve air connectivity, facilitate trade and support tourism-led economic growth while deepening relations between Eswatini and Botswana.
Source: https://shorturl.at/zCXv7
By Themba Zwane
