The 80-roomed hotel that the company is building at the second city is part of their ongoing expansion efforts within the country. According to management, the new hotel aims to cater for both business and leisure travellers, providing modern amenities and comfortable accommodation.
They added that Francistown being a significant commercial hub in the country will benefit from this addition by enhancing its hospitality offerings and supporting local tourism business activities. ODE group CEO-hospitality and business development- Justin Jose said construction of the hotel will commence in a month’s time. “We are really excited about this development and anticipate opening the hotel in December 2025,” he said. “The hotel which is along the Tati River will have a conference facility and other a swimming pool.”
As part of the expansion drive, the group also has plans to start construction of another lodge in Maun, with the lodge intended to serve the same market as the Gaborone and Kasane lodges. The lodge will have 100 rooms, conference centre and entertainment area which will have a swimming pool.
The projects signify growth and a positive outlook for the tourism in the region and Maun being the getaway to the Okavango Delta is a prime location for such an expansion, likely attracting more visitors and boosting the local economy. Jose added the lodge will also serve as a multi-purpose facility where clients could host exhibitions, conferences, launched, gala dinners and live entertainment events.
“We are prioritising local development to establishment to establish a solid foundation before expanding to the regional market,” he said Travel lodge operates three star hotels in Gaborone which has 115 rooms, a 300-seater conference and swimming pool. It also has a franchise Travel Lodge Kasane which has 150 rooms, a restaurant, pool, bar and 200 conference centre. Travel Lodge is part of the ODE Group which also owns Kalahari Arms hotel in Gantsi and room 50two.
