Botswana has allocated P351 million to aviation projects as part of its 2025/2026 development budget. This investment aims to enhance the country’s air transport infrastructure, improve connectivity, and position Botswana as a regional logistics hub.
The government has identified infrastructure deficiencies as a significant barrier to economic growth, with inadequate road networks, rail, power, water, and sewerage systems limiting development. The absence of world-class airports further restricts Botswana’s potential as a regional and international air travel destination. To address these challenges, the government is prioritising upgrades and expansion across key sectors, including aviation.
Aviation plays a crucial role in linking Botswana to global markets and unlocking new economic opportunities. The government is actively strengthening regional cooperation through Bilateral Air Services Agreements (BASAs) with neighbouring countries to improve connectivity. Additionally, strategic partnerships with international airlines aim to introduce more direct routes, making Botswana more accessible to global tourism and business markets. As a result of these efforts, Ethiopian Airlines and Fly Namibia have launched new international routes, further enhancing air travel options.
The aviation budget of P351 million will support several critical projects, including the maintenance of airports, upgrading of Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana (CAAB) ICT equipment, and the development of Maun Airport. Other key projects include improving existing airport security and safety systems, enhancing aviation security measures, and strengthening surveillance of Botswana’s airspace.
Beyond aviation, the budget also encompasses land management projects under the Ministry’s jurisdiction. These include spatial planning, surveying of plots, and land acquisition for future development. Additionally, land servicing initiatives will be carried out in various areas, such as Metsimotlhabe, Ghanzi Expansion Blocks 1 to 7, Maun CBD (Botshabelo Infill), Sir Seretse Khama International Airport Special Economic Zone, Mmopane Block 1, Chobe (Kachikau), Letlhakane (Letsibogo), and Kasane (Plateau and Nnyungwe).
Botswana is taking strategic steps towards modernising its air transport sector, improving regional and global connectivity, and unlocking economic potential through enhanced accessibility and logistics capabilities.
You can read the full budget speech here: https://www.finance.gov.bw/images/speeches/2025_Budget_Speech__MINISTER_09-02-2025_FINAL.pdf
