The Pavillion’s Story
In 1967 our young democracy faced a conundrum.
What to do with these newly-found diamonds? Recognising that these were seeds of transformation His Excellency Sir Seretse Khama, the first President, persuaded the Council of Chiefs, Dikgosi to relinquish individual tribal rights over diamond discoveries.
He believed that the ownership should lie with the Republic, in favour of all Batswana.
But diamonds alone did not jumpstart our economy, it was insight. Our forefathers knew that Botswana did not have the capital or expertise to develop and manage diamond mines – alone.
Through smart partnerships, our young democracy, people, infrastructure, and economy matured in the blink of an eye. We moved from ‘possessing a meager 12km of paved road’ to an appetising 8% GDP growth rate per year.
Walk with us, discover how we outpaced progress.
From the Seed to the Flowers, each section of the pavilion
will tell the unexpected tale of our exponential growth.
The Seeds Of Progress
Botswana has produced more than 728 million carats of rough diamonds since 1971. Encounter the most renowned and enchanting diamonds to ever leave our soil.
Cross-Pollinating For Progress
Explore our innovation space and discover new ideas, innovations, prototypes, products and more.
The Flowers Of Progress
Outpacing progress is about breathing new life into old ideas. Celebrate moments that left the world bedazzled. Experience everything from fashion to indigenous science to art.
The Land Of Progress
From the magnanimous Kalahari to the Okavango Delta the countless ecosystems make it a stronghold for wildlife to thrive. Through immersive VR & AR journeys, you can re-enact some of our most thrilling tourism attractions, exploring the natural wonder that is the Okavango Delta.
The People Of Progress
Motho ke motho ka batho. People are the very texture of a country. They are living history, carrying centuries of knowledge, culture and tradition. Let us expand your world-view.
The Fruit Of Progress
Discover how our young democracy, people, infrastructure and economy matured in the blink of an eye. Find out first-hand how forging smart partnerships accelerated the movement of wealth, goods, ideas and skills.
Start Your Experience
Through The Pavillion Here
Contact The Pavillion
Itumeleng Thato “Tummie” Teseletso – Manager, Export Promotion
Botswana Investment & Trade Centre (BITC)
Private Bag 00445 Gaborone, Botswana Plot 54351,
Central Business District
T (+267) +267 3633348 | M (+267) 72413269 | F (+267) 317 0452 | E teseletsoi@bitc.co.bw