Botswana’s Hospitality Landscape Set for Major Shift with P700 Million Radisson–BDC 5-Star Hotel Project

Botswana’s Hospitality Landscape Set for Major Shift with P700 Million Radisson–BDC 5-Star Hotel PProject. Botswana’s capital is gearing up for a landmark addition to its hospitality sector as the Botswana Development Corporation (BDC) moves ahead with a P700 million luxury hotel development to be operated by the Radisson Hotel Group. Set within the Fairscape Precinct in Fairgrounds, Gaborone, the project will introduce the city’s first tier-1, five-star hotel, marking a significant step in positioning Botswana as a high-end business and tourism destination.

Announced during the recent State of the Nation Address, President Advocate Duma Boko underscored the importance of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in driving export competitiveness, inclusive growth, and long-term economic progress. The Radisson development was highlighted among SEZ-supported investments gaining traction.

Scheduled to break ground in April 2026, the USD 50 million (approximately BWP 700 million) project is expected to create major employment opportunities, with around 3,000 jobs anticipated during construction and an additional 400 permanent positions once the hotel becomes operational.

BDC described the development as a flagship investment set to elevate Botswana’s presence in the regional hospitality market. With 150 rooms, nine floors, a rooftop pool deck, a sky lounge with panoramic city views, and a gross building area of up to 16,000 square metres, the hotel is designed to meet the rising demand for premium accommodation, conferences, and business travel.

Commercial Holdings, a wholly owned BDC subsidiary, has signed a Letter of Intent with Radisson Hotel Group to manage the establishment under a 20-year agreement. According to BDC, partnering with Radisson brings immediate international credibility, supported by the group’s presence in more than 95 countries and its 20-million-member Radisson Rewards programme, which will enhance guest acquisition and retention.

Radisson will further provide revenue management systems, operational support, and staff training aligned with its globally recognised service culture, ensuring that the hotel delivers world-class standards from day one.