Botswana Vaccine Institute

The Botswana Vaccine Institute (BVI), located in Gaborone, is a world-class scientific institution that serves as a critical guardian of the agricultural economy across the African continent. Established in the 1970s through a partnership between the Botswana government and the French Merieux Institute (now part of Boehringer Ingelheim), the BVI was created to combat the devastating effects of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) on the national cattle herd. As a World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH/OIE) Reference Laboratory, the institute specializes in the research, diagnosis, and manufacturing of high-quality vaccines tailored to specific regional viral strains. Its economic significance is profound, as it ensures that Botswana's beef exports meet the stringent sanitary standards required by the European Union and other international markets, thus protecting the livelihoods of thousands of farmers. Beyond domestic needs, BVI is a major exporter of veterinary vaccines to over 15 countries in Africa and the Middle East, showcasing Botswana’s advanced capabilities in biotechnology and its commitment to regional animal health and food security.

History & landmarks

iTowers

A modern high-rise complex shaping Gaborone's skyline.

Botswana Bureau of Standards

The BOBS headquarters is a modern institutional landmark responsible for maintaining quality and safety standards in Botswana.

Gaborone International Convention Centre

The Gaborone International Convention Centre is a premier venue for large-scale conferences, exhibitions, and international summits.

Christ the King Cathedral

This prominent Catholic cathedral is an architectural and spiritual landmark located in the heart of the capital city.

Botswana Innovation Hub

The Botswana Innovation Hub is a striking modern facility designed to foster technology, science, and creative entrepreneurship.

Gaborone Dam

The Gaborone Dam is a major infrastructure landmark and a popular recreational area for sailing and birdwatching.

Livingstone Memorial

The Kolobeng Mission ruins mark the site where David Livingstone lived and worked, serving as a landmark of 19th-century history.

More places

Three Dikgosi Monument

This bronze monument honors the three Tswana chiefs who traveled to London in 1895 to secure British protection.

Gaborone Garment Factory

Gaborone hosts various textile and garment manufacturing units that contribute to the country's light industrial sector.

Botswana Dry Port Terminal

The Walvis Bay Dry Port is a strategic facility in Namibia managed by Botswana to streamline access to the Atlantic Ocean.

Gaborone Dry Port

The Gaborone Dry Port is a vital logistics hub serving the capital and facilitating inland trade.

Diamond Technology Park

The Gaborone Diamond Hub is a central initiative aimed at clustering diamond sorting, cutting, and polishing services within the capital.

Botswana National Museum

The National Museum and Art Gallery in Gaborone is the primary institution for preserving Botswana's cultural and natural heritage.

Kgalagadi Breweries

Gaborone is home to large-scale beverage manufacturing operations, including major breweries.

Gaborone Game Reserve

A small, city-adjacent wildlife reserve.