Gaborone welcomes first mega indoor entertainment hub
Laone Choeunyane | Wednesday April 15, 2026 06:00
It will officially open its doors to the public on Saturday, April 18, 2026. Designed as a clean, safe, and high-energy destination, the facility brings together a wide range of activities under one roof, offering Batswana a vibrant new space to relax, play and connect.
The hub caters to families, young people, and corporate groups alike, marking a significant step forward in addressing the country’s limited leisure options.
Co-owners and co-creative directors, Yougesh Bhanote and Radhika Bhanote explained that the concept was inspired by a clear gap in the local market.
Yougesh noted that the lack of accessible, quality entertainment spaces often leaves people, particularly young people, seeking alternatives that are not always positive.
“We see that there's a lack of entertainment,” he said. “When that gap exists, people generally turn to alcohol or other substances to try and fill that void.”
At its core, Africa Plays has been intentionally designed with families in mind, creating an environment where both children and parents can enjoy the space in different ways.
While younger visitors immerse themselves in high-energy activities, parents can unwind in a relaxed setting.
“If a parent wants to come here, they should feel comfortable sitting in the café, putting on their headphones, grabbing a book and relaxing, knowing their child will not come back and say they’re bored,” Yougesh added.
The venue features a variety of attractions suitable for different ages and interests, including 10-pin bowling, a ninja obstacle course, a trampoline park, and a dedicated toddler play area, alongside an on-site café that anchors the experience.
A second floor is already under development and is expected to expand the offering even further in the near future.
Affordability has also been a key priority for the founders, who emphasise that the space is intended to be inclusive rather than exclusive.
“It’s important to us that it’s affordable for families and for people,” said Yougesh.
“That’s why we’ve made our prices very competitive,” she added.
In a move aimed at enhancing safety and convenience, the facility operates on a fully cashless system, reducing the risk of theft and creating a more secure environment for visitors.
The approach, according to Yougesh, adds to the peace of mind for families looking for a safe place to spend their time.
Beyond its entertainment value, Africa Plays is positioning itself as a community-driven space, one that encourages healthier social habits and provides an alternative to limited recreational options available to young people.
With offerings tailored for birthday celebrations, school outings, corporate events, and casual day visits, the hub is expected to quickly establish itself as a go-to destination in the capital.
As it opens this weekend, Africa Plays signals more than just a new business venture; it represents a shift in how leisure and social spaces are imagined in Botswana, bringing together fun, safety, and community under one roof.