Botswana is stepping up preparations to host a major continental aviation event after the Chief Executive Officer of the Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana (CAAB), Captain Thuto Toise, paid a courtesy visit to the Botswana Tourism Organisation (BTO) Acting Chief Executive Officer, Mr Justice Ofentse. The meeting took place on Tuesday afternoon and focused on strengthening cooperation between the two institutions ahead of AviaDev Africa 2026. The engagement highlighted the importance of coordination between aviation and tourism bodies in positioning Botswana as a competitive destination for international business events. It also reflected the country’s broader strategy of improving air connectivity and enhancing visitor experience. The discussions set the tone for closer collaboration as Botswana prepares to host one of Africa’s most influential aviation forums.
The courtesy call centred on preparations for AviaDev Africa 2026, a high-level aviation and route development conference scheduled for 10 to 12 June 2026 at the Gaborone International Convention Centre (GICC). The event is expected to bring together airlines, airports, tourism authorities and policymakers from across Africa and beyond. Its primary goal is to promote strategic dialogue that can lead to improved air connectivity and stronger aviation networks across the continent. For Botswana, hosting the event represents an opportunity to showcase its infrastructure, hospitality sector and investment potential. It also places the country in a strategic position within discussions that shape the future of African aviation.
Captain Thuto Toise and Mr Justice Ofentse discussed key areas of collaboration that will be critical to the success of the event. These include ensuring seamless airline arrivals, improving airport service delivery and creating a world-class experience for delegates attending the conference. Efficient coordination between aviation and tourism stakeholders was identified as essential in delivering a smooth and professional event. The discussions also focused on how Botswana can present itself as a well-prepared and welcoming destination for international guests. By aligning operational planning and service standards, both organisations aim to ensure that visitors experience efficiency from arrival to departure.
AviaDev Africa 2026 is expected to attract more than 450 delegates, including representatives from over 50 regional, continental and international airlines. This level of participation underscores the significance of the event in shaping air transport development across Africa. The conference serves as a platform for networking, route development discussions and partnerships between airlines and airports. For Botswana, the opportunity to host such a large gathering of aviation professionals strengthens its visibility in the global aviation and tourism sectors. It also creates potential for new air routes, increased passenger traffic and expanded business opportunities.
The involvement of the Botswana Tourism Organisation is seen as critical in ensuring that the country delivers a strong tourism experience alongside aviation efficiency. Tourism authorities are expected to play a key role in showcasing Botswana’s attractions, hospitality standards and cultural offerings to visiting delegates. This integrated approach aims to demonstrate how aviation and tourism work together to drive economic growth. A positive experience during AviaDev Africa 2026 could encourage future visitors and investors to consider Botswana as a preferred destination. It also reinforces the importance of branding the country as both a tourism and business hub.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana has a central role in ensuring that airport operations and aviation services meet international standards during the event. This includes coordination with airport authorities, airlines and ground service providers to manage increased traffic and ensure safety and efficiency. Strong aviation management is essential for creating a positive impression on international stakeholders attending the conference. The authority’s involvement highlights Botswana’s commitment to maintaining high operational standards in its aviation sector. It also reflects ongoing efforts to modernise and strengthen the country’s air transport infrastructure.
AviaDev Africa itself is widely regarded as one of the continent’s leading aviation route development forums. It provides a platform where industry leaders discuss opportunities for expanding air connectivity within Africa and between global markets. The 2026 edition in Gaborone is expected to focus on unlocking new routes, improving regional connectivity and addressing challenges facing the aviation industry. For Botswana, hosting the event aligns with its ambition to position itself as a regional hub for aviation and tourism. It also supports broader economic diversification goals by attracting investment and increasing international exposure.
The expected attendance of more than 50 airlines highlights the scale and importance of the conference for the aviation industry. Airlines participating in the event will have the opportunity to engage directly with airports, tourism boards and government representatives. These interactions often lead to new partnerships, route agreements and expanded flight networks. For Botswana, this presents a valuable opportunity to promote its airports and tourism destinations to key decision-makers in the aviation sector. It also opens the door for increased air traffic and improved connectivity to global markets.
The collaboration between CAAB and BTO reflects a growing recognition that aviation and tourism must work hand in hand to achieve national development goals. Both sectors are closely linked, with air connectivity playing a key role in driving tourism growth and economic activity. By aligning their efforts ahead of AviaDev Africa 2026, the two organisations aim to ensure that Botswana delivers a coordinated and impactful hosting experience. This partnership also demonstrates a shared commitment to positioning Botswana as a competitive player in the regional and global aviation landscape. It highlights the importance of institutional cooperation in achieving long-term strategic objectives.
The courtesy visit between Captain Thuto Toise and Mr Justice Ofentse marks an important step in Botswana’s preparations for AviaDev Africa 2026. The discussions underscore the importance of collaboration between aviation and tourism stakeholders in delivering a successful international event. With over 450 delegates and participation from more than 50 airlines expected, the conference presents a major opportunity for Botswana to strengthen its position as a hub for aviation, tourism and investment. The focus on seamless operations, improved service delivery and enhanced visitor experience reflects the country’s commitment to excellence. As preparations continue, Botswana is set to benefit from increased visibility and strengthened global partnerships through this landmark aviation event.
