Botswana is Open For Business: Official Opening of The AVIADEV Africa 2026 Conference

This morning marked the official opening of the AviaDev Africa 2026 Conference, officiated by the Vice President of the Republic of Botswana, His Honour Ndaba Nkosinathi Gaolathe. The opening ceremony commenced with welcome remarks from Captain Thuso Toise, CEO of the Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana (CAAB). In his address, he emphasized Botswana’s commitment to fostering long-term partnerships that unlock investment opportunities and drive route development. Providing an overview of Botswana Air Access initiative, the Acting Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Hon. Keoagile Atamelang, extended sincere appreciation to CAAB and its industry partners. He encouraged delegates to leverage the platform to strengthen partnerships and champion new route development, noting that Botswana’s approach is anchored in transparency, data-driven decision-making, and proactive engagement. In a keynote fireside chat with AviaDev Founder, Jon Howell, His Honour Ndaba Gaolathe offered a compelling perspective on Botswana’s geographic positioning and long-term vision for aviation and investment. Challenging conventional perceptions, he remarked, “You may think of us as landlocked, but we say we’re land-linked.” This statement underscored Botswana’s strategic ambition to position itself as a central hub for trade, tourism, and aviation within Africa and beyond. The event was also attended by the Assistant Minister of Trade and Entrepreneurship, Hon. Baratiwa Mathoothe, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment and Tourism; Ms Abigail Khumoyame, Chairperson of the CAAB Board; Mr Kopano Bolokwe, CEO of the Botswana Investment and Trade Centre, Mr Keletsositse Olebile and Air Botswana General Manager, Dr Bao Mosinyi