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Francistown Sez. Francistown, Botswana’s second-largest city, was designated as a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) with the goal of transforming it into a hub for freight, logistics, mining supplies distribution, aerospace, aviation, and engineering industries. The SEZ, located on a 1,200-hectare area, is strategically positioned near key mining operations and important transportation routes, including major roads and railway lines to Zimbabwe, Zambia, and other African markets.
The plan aims to leverage Francistown’s location as a key corridor for goods traveling through southern Africa. For example, it is positioned as a logistics alternative to cities like Durban and Johannesburg, offering direct access to mines within a 200km radius. Additionally, the SEZ includes the Philip Matante International Airport, which will serve both local and international markets.
Despite these ambitious plans, the Francistown SEZ has faced delays and challenges, with infrastructure development lagging behind. However, recent efforts by Botswana’s Special Economic Zones Authority (SEZA) indicate a renewed push to finalize master plans and attract investment into industries like chemical manufacturing, electronic equipment, and aviation.
While progress has been slow, the SEZ’s potential as a mining and logistics hub continues to be promoted as a key part of Botswana’s broader economic development strategy.
