Gaborone, Botswana, February 2025: Zotus Group, a British multinational, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Government of Botswana to develop Zotus City, a special economic zone designed to transform the country's economy.
The agreement follows a high level meeting between Davison Simango, CEO of Zotus Group, and Mr President Advocate Duma Boko the President of Botswana at the World Economic Forum in Davos 2025. In a strong show of support, England football legend and Zotus Group Ambassador, Emile Heskey, accompanied the Group to Botswana to formalize the agreement.
The 4000 hectare city, modelled after Dubai's economic success, is planned as a world class investment hub aimed at diversifying Botswana's economy, currently reliant on diamond exports. With a USD 50 billion total programme value, the city is intended to serve as a centre for trade, tourism, technology and green energy, targeting more than 20,000 direct jobs over the long term, subject to phasing, approvals, financing and full development.
Key Features of Zotus City:
• Special Economic Zone: Anchored by a planned mixed use commercial and investment district, the project aims to create a business friendly environment with incentives to attract global investors and multinational corporations, subject to formal designation and applicable approvals.
• Sustainable Energy Infrastructure: A planned 300MW renewable energy and storage platform to supply the development, subject to feasibility, approvals and delivery phasing.
• Water Security: A proposed water pipeline concept intended to support sustainable water supply for the development, subject to technical studies and approvals.
• Job Creation: More than 20,000 direct jobs targeted over the long term, subject to phasing, approvals, financing and full development, with additional benefits to small businesses and supply chains.
• Tourism Boost: Hotels, entertainment venues and cultural attractions are planned with the aim of strengthening Botswana's position as an African tourism and business destination.
• Aviation Connectivity: Planned aviation connectivity and an airport anchored development strategy to support access for business and leisure travel, subject to feasibility and approvals.
• Technological & Financial Hub: A modern financial district with opportunities for fintech, digital economy, and innovation.
Advantages of Zotus City for Botswana:
• Economic Diversification: Reduces reliance on diamond exports and strengthens Botswana's position in global trade.
• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Attracts multinational companies, fostering business expansion and economic growth.
• Renewable Energy Leadership: Establishes Botswana as a leader in clean energy development in Africa.
• Tourism Growth: Aims to enhance the country's appeal as a high end tourist destination, leveraging Botswana's internationally recognised natural assets, including the Okavango Delta and the Kalahari.
• Infrastructure Development: Modern roads, airports, and commercial spaces to enhance connectivity and mobility.
• Skills Development & Education: Creates opportunities for vocational training, entrepreneurship, and higher education.
• Regional Influence: Positions Botswana as a hub for trade and investment in Southern Africa.
With its strategic vision and long term development approach, Zotus City is intended to be a catalyst for Botswana's economic future and a benchmark for smart city development across Africa.
