In the middle of the Kalahari Desert, Zotus Group is embarking on building what could be Botswana's own version of Dubai—an oasis city in the middle of the desert. Zotus City, as it will be known, aims to bring sustainability to the doorstep of Botswana.
BW TechZone caught up with Davison Somango, CEO of Zotus Group, to get more info on the project, including timelines, partnerships, and most importantly, what Botswana stands to gain.
What was the original spark or problem that Zotus City was designed to solve, and why Botswana, specifically the Kalahari?
Zotus City was born from a bold idea: to create Africa’s most advanced, sustainable city – one that redefines how we live, work, and innovate. It began with a simple yet powerful question: Why should world-class infrastructure, opportunity, and innovation be restricted to a few global cities?
Zotus City is an effort to bring economic diversification, sustainable infrastructure, and modern living to new frontiers. Botswana was the natural choice. With political stability, sound governance, a proactive and innovation-friendly government, and a strategic vision through Vision 2036, the country offers a uniquely business-friendly environment.
The Kalahari Desert offers a rare opportunity: a blank canvas (much like Dubai 30 years ago) where we can build a climate-resilient, future-ready city from the ground up. Positioned between regional powerhouses like South Africa, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, Botswana is emerging as a key transit and trade hub. Zotus City aims to anchor that vision and turn Botswana into a powerful link between Africa and the global economy.
Many smart cities remain just “vision boards.” What makes you confident Zotus City will avoid that fate?
Zotus City is already moving from concept to construction. Land allocation is in its final stages, and we are working with the government to conclude the process. An Investment Project Committee is being set up with support from key ministries and parastatals.
Our phased development is underway, and our approach is rooted in real-world execution, combining world-class urban planning with innovative technology. Every milestone brings us closer to a living, thriving city.
This is a multi-billion-dollar development in the middle of a desert. How is it being financed—and by whom?
Zotus City is supported by a global network of private investors, strategic partners, and innovative financing structures. Our supporters believe in Africa’s future and Botswana’s promise. The investments are guided by our vision: to build a resilient, self-sustaining economic hub that delivers returns for generations.
How are you balancing investor expectations with the long timelines of infrastructure development?
We have adopted a phased development model that delivers early wins while building long-term value. From core infrastructure to commercial zones, each phase is designed to unlock immediate opportunities, which keeps investors engaged and the vision progressing.
What are your concrete timelines for the first phase of development, and what should we expect over the next 12–24 months?
In the next 12 to 24 months, expect visible progress: roads, utilities, and the city’s digital backbone will take shape. We will host the official groundbreaking and unveil the city’s design blueprint.
Key milestones include the launch of the 300MW solar plant and, development of residential and commercial zones. and the first wave of business tenants moving in.
Water infrastructure is also advancing. The Ministry of Water, in collaboration with Namibian partners, is conducting a pre-feasibility study for a regional pipeline. Zotus is helping fast-track this effort, not just for the city, but to support national water resilience.
How are you sourcing contractors and talent for such a complex build, and are local firms being prioritised?
Botswana’s talent is at the heart of this project. We are actively engaging contractors, engineers, and entrepreneurs based in Botswana to ensure skills, jobs, and economic opportunities stay in the country. At the same time, we are using global experts where needed to create a constructive collaboration between local knowledge and international best practices.
Zotus City promises sustainability. Beyond the 300MW solar plant, what green innovations are being integrated?
Sustainability is the foundation, not just a feature of Zotus City. In addition to solar energy, Zotus City will integrate smart water management systems, green architecture and energy-efficient buildings, electric mobility and transport, and circular economy principles (including waste-to-resource solutions).
Every design decision aims to reduce environmental impact while enhancing long-term resilience.
What digital infrastructure or smart technologies will be embedded from day one, and how will they serve residents and businesses?
Zotus City’s vision is to be a fully connected, tech-forward ecosystem. From day one, we will incorporate high-speed internet and fiber connectivity, AI-powered urban management systems, IoT-enabled infrastructure and blockchain-based governance tools.
We are also collaborating with the Botswana Digital & Innovation Hub (BDIH) to integrate homegrown solutions, highlighting Botswana’s innovation on a global stage.
What role does the Botswana government play in governance and oversight, and how is alignment with national goals ensured?
We are working closely with the Botswana government to ensure full alignment with Vision 2036 and national development priorities. Zotus City complements the country’s focus on diversification, innovation, and sustainable growth, positioning us not just as a private project, but as a national strategic partner.
How will ordinary citizens, beyond investors, benefit from Zotus City in practical terms like jobs, housing, and skills?
Zotus City is a nation-building project. During construction, we expect to create over 20,000 direct jobs. Once operational, the city will support more than 100,000 long-term roles across sectors like logistics, technology, tourism, and retail.
Thousands more will benefit through supply chains, local businesses, and services. We are also investing in skills development and affordable housing to ensure that every Botswana - not just investors - has a stake in the city’s success.