Botswana’s authorities have refuted reports that a United States military base is located on the country’s territory, according to a press release issued by the government of the African country.
The document states that false reports have been circulating in the media and political circles claiming that a US military base is located at Thebephatshwa Air Base in southern Botswana.
“Botswana does not host a United States military base. Thebephatshwa Air Base is a sovereign military installation owned, operated and controlled entirely by the Botswana Government through the Botswana Defence Force. The facility serves Botswana’s national interests of enhancing emergency response capabilities, supporting regional peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts, and maintaining the operational readiness of our armed forces,” the statement said.
Botswana’s authorities called on the media and political figures to verify facts before making public statements on the country’s defence policy.
“Misinformation, particularly when amplified across borders, has the potential to create unnecessary misunderstanding among citizens and between neighbouring countries <…> Botswana values its strong relationships with all its neighbours, and remains committed to regional cooperation, dialogue and mutual respect,” the release said.
In August 2025, the United States government notified Congress of its intention to transfer two C-130H Hercules military transport aircraft to Botswana free of charge as part of defence co-operation. Each aircraft was valued at $12 million.
