08 Dec 2025

UNIK Construction employees work on the reconstruction of the 200km Francistown–Nata Road near Francistown.

According to Okavango Africa Consortium development manager and team leader, Mr Moemedi Gabana, the project, which started in November 2024 and is scheduled for completion by the end of 2027, is 34 per cent complete, with progress slowed by heavy rains affecting the construction of new bridges across the Tati and Shashe rivers.

SADC head of communications and public relations, Ms Barbara Lopi, said the road upgrade underscores Botswana’s commitment to strengthening regional trade connectivity. Once completed, the A3 Francistown–Nata Road will reinforce Botswana’s position as a key transit hub for goods moving across Southern Africa, linking South Africa, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

The project not only supports domestic economic growth, but also facilitates seamless cross-border trade, directly advancing SADC’s objectives of promoting intra-regional commerce, deeper integration and sustainable development. Photo: Ogopoleng Kgomoethata