- set to transform Maun into a modern and sustainable urban Centre
- will comprise commercial housing, mixed-use strip mall, recreational facilities, five to six-star hotels, artificial lake
- the project is designed to attract new residents, investors – creating a strong economic ecosystem for Maun
- local residents to benefit through housing, job creation and stimulation of local economy
The launch of the P3 billion worth Maun East Smart City project this Tuesday marked a major step towards transforming the tourism capital into a modern and sustainable urban centre.
Undertaken by Managed Portfolio Botswana, the project covers 139 hectares and is designed as a smart, green mixed-use development that will combine residential, commercial, cultural and environmental systems. Once completed, the estate is expected to change the face of Maun by introducing modern infrastructure while protecting the environment.
The Project Manager at Design 360 Architects, Ceasor Tshupelo, revealed that Phase One of the project will begin with 200 Bonno National Housing Units, aimed at activating cash flow and unlocking larger mixed-use developments.
Tshupelo said the smart city will also include commercial housing, a mixed-use strip mall, recreational facilities, a bigger and better hospital, and many five to six-star hotels. According to him, the project is designed to attract new residents and investors, creating a strong economic ecosystem for Maun.
He stated that the project will also feature an artificial lake within that is inspired by the Okavango Delta, also offering canoeing, holiday homes and leisure activities.
Tshupelo noted that most of the P3 billion investments will benefit the local region through procurement of materials and services. “60 percent of the P3 billion budget will be spent within the Ngamiland region to avoid importing materials and to support local suppliers,” he emphasized.
Tshupelo noted that cities do not develop by accident and stressed the need for collective involvement from leadership, the business community and residents to make the project a success. He emphasized that Maun must define its future by embracing transformation.
Giving the keynote address, North West District Commissioner Thabang Waloka said the Maun East Smart City represents progress and innovation aligned with national development goals. He said smart planning is essential as urbanisation increases and stressed the need for resilient and environmentally responsible infrastructure.
Waloka said the project will benefit Maun residents through housing across income levels, job creation, commercial activity and investment opportunities. He assured that the district administration will continue to support the project while safeguarding community interests to ensure that they remain protected throughout the project’s implementation.
He encouraged ‘Manage Portfolio Botswana’ to maintain openness, transparency and continuous consultation with all stakeholders, including traditional leaders and local communities.
Batawana Deputy Paramount Chief, Kgosi Kealetile Moremi, said the Maun East Smart City responds meaningfully to the growing needs of Maun as an economic and tourism hub. She said traditional leadership supports developments that are well planned, orderly and sensitive to both community needs and environmental protection.
Kgosi Moremi highlighted that the green city approach, which includes renewable energy solutions, efficient land use and sustainable water management, will ensure long-term resilience. She said the development has strong potential to create jobs, develop skills, improve housing and open business opportunities, especially for the youth.
She commended Manage Portfolio Botswana for engaging relevant stakeholders and encouraged continued consultation, transparency and respect for the community to ensure the project becomes a model of inclusive and sustainable urban development.
