On 14 April 2026, during Botswana’s National Assembly, Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Hon. Noah Salakae responded to a question from Hon. Kgoberego Nkawana regarding the status of the proposed cargo airport in Selebi-Phikwe and its relationship to the existing airport.
Minister Salakae informed the House that the proposed development, referred to as the Mophane Cargo International Airport (MCIA), is being spearheaded by a private, citizen-owned company, 123 Dimensions (Pty) Ltd.
The developer envisions a modern international airport with both cargo and passenger handling capabilities.
Due to the scale of the planned infrastructure, including runway, aprons, terminal buildings and aircraft hangars, the Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana (CAAB) has extended the airport footprint by acquiring land adjoining the existing Selebi-Phikwe Airport to accommodate the development. That land acquisition, as requested by the investor, has been completed.
CAAB is currently awaiting detailed development master plans, project plans, commercial proposals and the proposed operating model from 123 Dimensions.
Minister Salakae clarified that the land earmarked for MCIA is fully owned by CAAB and that the project is proposed on the existing and expanded Selebi-Phikwe airport site.
The developer has been advised to ensure the continued and uninterrupted operations of the current airport during any construction period.
The Minister further stated that the proposed project will not involve the purchase of the existing Selebi-Phikwe Airport.
Subject to the commercials and operating model to be submitted, CAAB will consider a long-term lease or strategic partnership to leverage the airport and land assets.
The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure reaffirmed its commitment to infrastructure development that enhances connectivity, trade and economic growth while safeguarding public assets and service continuity.
The Mophane Cargo International Airport (MCIA) project is a transformative initiative aimed at positioning Botswana as a key player in the African air cargo industry. The project seeks to develop a state-of-the-art air cargo hub and passenger aviation hub that not only addresses the current logistical challenges in the region, but also significantly contributes to the economic development of Botswana and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
According to a statement issued in August 2025, the project will include:
- Terminal Building: A state-of-the-art terminal building with modern facilities.
- World class Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul facility to handle all types of aircraft
- Cargo Handling: A cargo terminal to handle significant volumes of cargo.
- Runway and Taxiways: A long runway and parallel taxiway to accommodate large aircraft.
- Aviation Infrastructure: Supporting infrastructure, such as air traffic control towers, aprons, and access roads.
Upon completion, the MCIA is expected to handle 20-30 large international cargo flights daily in its initial phases, with the capacity to manage 500 000 tonnes of cargo per year
