Last week, there were consultations by decision-makers in Maun on the idea that Maun should be transformed into a Green City. I assume this vision is informed by the fact that Maun, which is often celebrated as the Gateway to the Okavango Delta has become big enough in terms of population and socio-economic developments to qualify it for this transformative journey.
A journey that could see it emerge as first true Green City in Botswana. Maun as a tourism hub is nestled on the edge of the Okavango Delta which is the world’s most pristine ecosystem. In this regard, Maun has both the responsibility and the opportunity to lead in sustainable urban development.
The proposed vision of transforming Maun into a Green City makes made me think of two specific documents, namely: the Maun Development Plan 2023-2043 and National Tourism Strategy and Tourism Development Master Plan for Botswana 2022-2032. These two planning documents need to be interrogated to find out if talk to this vision or not. While, this is the case, there are some aspects that need to be considered in transforming Maun into a green city, these include:
Rethinking Urban Planning – A green Maun begins with sustainable land use planning. In this regard, planners should prioritize environmental conservation and preserve biodiversity especially along the Thamalakane River to offer residents natural spaces for recreation. This means future developments in Maun should embrace eco-friendly architecture, using energy-efficient designs and sustainable materials.
Harnessing the Sun – Botswana’s abundant sunshine makes renewable energy especially solar energy a natural choice for Maun. In this regard, Maun can lead by investing in solar farms and encouraging rooftop solar installations for homes, lodges, and public buildings. Transitioning to energy-efficient lighting and appliances will further reduce Maun’s carbon footprint.
Greener Mobility – Transportation is a major contributor to urban emissions. In this regard, Maun’s transformation should have roads built in such as a way that they include safe pedestrian walkways and bicycle lanes, reducing reliance on fossil-fuelled vehicles. Last year towards elections, there were proposals of electric vehicles. A green city will need to introduce electric buses, and shared shuttles will offer clean, affordable public transport. This can start within the tourism sectors where shuttles to and from Maun International Airport are encouraged to shift from the use of fossil fuels to electric safari vehicles. Presently, only Chobe Game Lodge in Botswana is using electric vehicles for game drives and electric boats for boat cruising in the Chobe River. This can be expanded into Maun and the entire Okavango Delta.
Sustainable Waste Management – The Effective waste management is central to a green city. As a result, Maun should establish recycling centers. Big centres like facilities in Malls in Maun, hotels and even households should be seen to be prioritising sustainable waste management, and this should include recycling. Reducing single-use plastics and exploring waste-to-energy solutions will help turn trash into a resource. A few years ago, there was a proposal to charge 10 thebe for a plastic bag, now a plastic bag can cost one 60 thebe in shopping facilities. The idea was that of discouraging the use of plastics in the country. Regrettably, government has so fair been unable to establish a mechanising of collection the plastic money from shops.
Governance and Community Engagement – A green city is built on inclusive governance. In this regard, Maun’s transformation must involve local communities, traditional leaders, youth, school children, women, business community, tourism operators and academia and many other stakeholders in planning and decision-making. Education in schools in and around Maun should be seen to be providing learners with skills and knowledge of a green economy. There should also be strong environmental policies, backed by monitoring and evaluation systems should be adopted to ensure accountability and progress.
Finally, as Maun stands at the crossroads of development and environmental conservation, its transformation into a green city could serve as a model for other towns across Botswana and beyond. With visionary leadership and community commitment, Maun can become not just a gateway to the Okavango Delta—but a gateway to a sustainable future. The vision of transforming Maun into a Green City is a welcome development.
