18 Jun 2024

Francistown’s geographic location places it in a better position to be a key service centre for the SADC region.

Speaking at the Francistown Urban Development Plan meeting recently, a consultant with JS Planning and Design Studio, Mr Tshepo Sitale said Francistown had major connectivity networks, including highways, railways, and airways, as such, Botswana’s second city could effectively serve as a transport hub, linking Botswana with the rest of the SADC region.

JS Planning and Design Studio has been contracted by the Francistown City Council and the Department of Town, Regional and Country Planning to look into the future of Francistown and come up with a draft that outlines the future plan of the second city.

The project is currently at draft stage and the company is doing consultations with stakeholders and public members to solicit ideas before the plan can be finalised and gazetted.

Mr Sitale further indicated that the city was an ideal place for business and investment, given prime location and inherent opportunities that they brought along. He said Francistown was also an ideal destination for businesses and investors looking to tap into the growing markets in the SADC region north of Botswana.

“The strategic positioning of Francistown in relation to the SADC region places it in a unique and advantageous position to capitalise on its economic potential when we consider trade and commerce,” added Mr Sitale.

He explained that as a key intersection along important trade routes, Francistown could serve as a vital distribution centre for goods and services, enabling it to capture a significant portion of the regional market share.

Mr Sitale explained that the famous Blue Jacket street, a pivotal artery in the heart of the bustling city, has long been a cause for concern.

He However stated that due poor road conditions to safety issues, Francistown had failed to meet the standards that residents deserved.

He, therefore, said by transforming it into a proper urban place, the city had the opportunity to improve pedestrian and vehicle safety.

He said due to its rich history, the Blue Jacket street could boost economic activities with its newly established urban character.

He said the street could also revitalise the surrounding area by attracting new businesses, creating jobs and increasing property values. The street, he said, could also enhance environmental sustainability.

Mr Sitale also hinted that by incorporating green spaces, Blue Jacket street could reduce its carbon footprint and create a more viable, sustainable urban environment.

He said other land marks were the Tati and Ntshe rivers that passed through the city, which he said could accommodate parks and green spaces around on their banks, and enhance Francistown’s appeal.

Mr Sitale explained such a move could also boost tourism as beautifully designed parks, complete with paths for walking and jogging as well as picnic areas, would attract visitors from near and afar.

Mr Sitale further indicated that there would also be an improved public health by encouraging people to get outdoors and being active, which was a great way of promoting physical and mental wellbeing.

Some of the participants called for an innovative proposal regarding health tourism street, which they said could turn Francistown into a prominent health destination and also greatly enhance the city’s overall appeal in a number of ways.

Nyangabgwe Referral Hospital superintendent, Dr Ivan Kgetse said such could boost economic growth for the city.

Dr Kgetse said by creating a dedicated health street, Francistown could attract both local and international patients seeking specialised medical services, generating significant economic activity and job opportunities. ENDS