16 Dec 2025

The upgrade of Gaborone Bus and Taxi terminal is  essential for urban renewal and efficiency to improve safety and security, streamline transport operational efficiency, and contribute to the broader Greater Gaborone development as a modern, vibrant economic hub Motshegwa.

The development works being undertaken at the Gaborone Bus and Taxi terminal is vital for greater public transport efficiency beneficial to the capital, and the temporary displacement of traders who operate at the station is a short term necessity.
This was said by the Minister of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Mr Ketlhalefile Motshegwa, on Friday at the National Assembly in response to a question without notice from Mogoditshane East, Member of Parliament, Mr Letlhogonolo Barongwang.
Mr Motshegwa said the ongoing development works were necessary to modernise the public transport infrastructure in Gaborone, enhancing safety, efficiency and urban vibrancy saying temporary displacement of informal traders was unavoidable to construct the new, multi-level, and safer terminal.
He added that the displacement had been necessitated by the need to clear the site for the construction of a new and larger modern facility, which would include new underground services and structured commercial spaces, with a long-term goal of formalising the informal sector into better facilities.
“Consultation is ongoing and structured through dedicated communication channels to ensure continuous stakeholder engagement. This includes the formation of dedicated committees comprising representatives from traders, the Gaborone City Council (GCC), and the project team to facilitate consistent feedback,” said Mr Motshegwa.
He added that regular meetings were being held to provide timely updates, address any concerns, and to explain the temporary relocation process and the future stall allocation procedures.
“A mandatory verification process is also in place to accurately identify and register all legitimate traders, ensuring they receive critical communications and are prioritized for re-allocation within the new terminal,” said Mr Motshegwa.
He further revealed that as a means of minimising disruption, there were designated areas adjacent to the operational hub prepared with basic amenities, in particular shelter, sanitation and lighting, maintaining proximity to commuters.
“In addition, there is provision for waiving market or vending fees for the temporary sites to reduce operating costs. Furthermore, collaboration with agencies like Citizen Entrepreneural Development Agency (CEDA) to explore offering temporary, low-interest micro-loans to help traders meet financial obligations during the transition period,” said Mr Motshegwa.
Also, the upgrade offers substantial long-term benefits across key stakeholder groups, Mr Motshegwa said.
These would include traders receiving an allocation of formal, modern stalls featuring better security, reliable electricity, and improved sanitation, which is expected to cultivate a more professional business image and significantly increase customer volume, the minister stated.
Commuters would also enjoy an improved user experience within a safer, cleaner, and covered terminal, benefiting from efficient transport services and clear organisation.
He further revealed that tender awards were made to two companies, Silverpark and MADCO in September 2024 and July 2025 respectively and that the first phase was expected to be complete by end of 2026.
Mr Barongwang had asked the minister to clarify to Parliament the rationale behind the ongoing development works at the Gaborone Bus and Taxi Terminal, particularly in relation to the temporary displacement of informal traders, and further outline. ENDS