A high-powered delegation from Zotus City, led by Chief Executive Officer Davison Simango, is currently in Dubai engaging with global business leaders after being invited to the prestigious Global Impact Project Showcase at the Mayor’s City Hall Stage.
The event features a carefully selected list of participants, each representing innovative, high-value projects shaping the future of cities worldwide.
Held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, the Mayor’s City Hall Stage runs under the theme, 'Accelerating Innovation, Investments and Impact.'
The gathering brings together city leaders, investors, developers, and innovators to explore transformative opportunities for sustainable urban growth.
At the core of the Global Cities Summit, the City Hall Stage offers a unique platform for cities and corporations to showcase impactful projects and initiatives.
Its Major Project Briefings, Urban Solutions Spotlights, and Media Moments are designed to fast-track urban development from concept to collaboration.
These sessions attract mayors, governors, developers, investors, and technical experts seeking scalable, investment-ready ventures that redefine city living.
Representing Botswana, Zotus City’s delegation took to the stage on Wednesday, the second day of the event, alongside five other global organisations presenting major development projects.
Delivering a compelling presentation titled, 'Zotus City: Africa’s Dubai of the Kalahari – Transforming Regional Trade through the Trans-Kalahari Corridor,' Simango outlined the ambitious USD 50 billion project poised to transform Botswana into a regional trade and logistics powerhouse.
Strategically located along the Trans-Kalahari Corridor (TKC)—linking Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa, Zotus City aims to position Botswana as a premier logistics and investment hub for the SADC region, connecting Africa with Asia and the Middle East.
The 4,200-hectare Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Ghanzi, developed in partnership with the Government of Botswana, has been formalised through a Tripartite Agreement between Zotus City Development Group, the TKC Secretariat, and the Botswana Investment & Trade Centre.
The project features, a masterplan designed by global firms BIG and Surbana Jurong, including a 300 MW solar power plant, regional water pipeline, expanded international airport, AI-driven data centre, and digital innovation district.
Together, these developments are expected to establish Zotus City as a model of sustainable infrastructure, economic diversification, and smart governance.
Backed by global partners such as King & Spalding and endorsed by brand ambassadors Didier Drogba and Emile Heskey, Zotus City aspires to be “Africa’s Dubai of the Kalahari.”
It will stand as a beacon of sustainable urban transformation and public-private collaboration, driving economic growth and social progress not just for Botswana, but across southern Africa.
The presentation generated considerable interest, with Simango hinting that it may soon attract investors eager to visit Botswana to explore opportunities on the ground.
Other notable presentations at the event included the Brazilian Urban Spotlight, featuring Andre Portugues, President of Miguel Pereira Tur and former Mayor of Miguel Pereira, Abilio Brunini, Mayor of Cuiabá (Mato Grosso), and Joao Marcelo, Mayor of Nova Lima (Minas Gerais).
Their presentation showcased how Brazilian cities are advancing smart governance and sustainability.
Equally captivating was the Longevity Island project in Abu Dhabi, a USD 4 billion healthcare and wellness destination unveiled by Ila Colombo of DEOND.
The world’s first comprehensive longevity-focused healthcare complex, it spans 930,000 square meters—preserving 70 per cent of its area as pristine natural landscape.
Inspired by biomimicry and “blue zone” principles, Longevity Island integrates regenerative medicine, luxury living, and environmental harmony.
Projected revenues are expected to rise from USD 307 million in 2026 to USD 1.48 billion by 2030, offering a glimpse into the future of healthcare innovation and sustainable luxury.
The Proactive Municipality: Shaping the Future Through Foresight-Driven Signals, presented by His Excellency Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, and Fida Alhammadi, Acting CEO of Planning and Governance, explored how Dubai’s urban policies are driven by long-term data and innovation strategies designed to anticipate global urban challenges.
Another highlight was the Zorrotzaurre Project from Bilbao, Spain, presented by Asier Abaunza, Councillor for Urban Planning, Strategic Projects, and Public Space.
This €250 million redevelopment initiative—driven by a partnership between the Basque Government, Bilbao City Council, and private investors—aims to transform the area into a sustainable, innovation-focused district.
The project will deliver 5,500 new homes, green spaces, and public facilities, while fostering digital and creative industries through the Zorrotzaurre Urban Innovation District.
From Croatia, Mayor Dario Hrebak of Bjelovar showcased the Wellovar Geothermal Sports and Recreation Park, the largest project in the city’s history, valued at €51 million.
Powered by geothermal and solar energy, the self-sustaining complex includes six indoor and outdoor pools and is expected to transform the city’s tourism and economy.
Bjelovar is also investing heavily in sports and infrastructure through its new Business Zone and Arena Project, designed to meet professional football league standards.
Also featured was “Education Fuels Dubai’s Growth Story”, presented by Fatma Belrehif of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), which emphasized the role of education in driving Dubai’s knowledge-based economy and global competitiveness.
Through such platforms, the Mayor’s City Hall Stage continues to position Dubai as a global centre for innovation and investment while enabling transformative partnerships that redefine the future of urban living.
For Zotus City, the opportunity to share Botswana’s smart city vision on this global stage marks a pivotal moment one that underscores Africa’s growing role in shaping tomorrow’s cities.
The following sessions of the Global Cities Summit continued to showcase ground-breaking projects and forward-thinking urban initiatives from across the globe, reaffirming the event’s role as a hub for innovation, sustainability, and investment.
One of the highlights was the launch of Circle Dubai, presented by His Excellency Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality.
The project embodies Dubai’s vision for a circular, resilient, and technology-driven city, integrating smart urban management and sustainable growth models.
Complementing this was the presentation “Smart & Sustainable Cities Beyond Borders”, which unveiled satellite-powered urban solutions designed to shape tomorrow’s sustainable cities.
Valued at USD 2.5 billion over five years, with USD 500 million–1 billion ready for deployment within the next 12 months, the initiative offers investors a powerful opportunity to align profitability with purpose.
The session, led by Amruthraj Arogyadas (Chief of Sustainability & Space), Dr. P.G. Diwakar (ISRO Chair Professor), Dr. Chinmay Hegde (Chief of Astrikos), and Naveen Kumar (Co-founder and CTO), demonstrated how space technologies and data-driven systems can accelerate sustainable urban transformation across the Asia-Pacific region.
The 2025 State of the City Report, presented by Dr. John Cowie from the Brisbane Economic Development Agency, highlighted Brisbane’s competitive advantages across health, advanced manufacturing, logistics, and the knowledge economy. The report positioned Brisbane as a global hub for sustainable growth, industry collaboration, and business investment.
Another major attraction was the Downtown Yerevan Masterplan, unveiled by Tigran Avinyan, Mayor of Yerevan. The USD 4 billion project envisions 155 high-rise towers, housing 17,000 modern apartments for about 60,000 residents. It will include a balanced mix of residential, commercial, retail, and public spaces, alongside 20.7 hectares of landscaped parks, schools, sports, and cultural
facilities—transforming Yerevan into a modern, sustainable capital.
The Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organizing Committee also drew attention with the launch of its procurement programme, presented by Jessica Reid, Chief of Staff to the Committee President.
The new digital portal will help businesses and suppliers access opportunities worth an estimated USD 2.5 billion, spanning construction, logistics, technology, and professional services in preparation for the Games.
In the green energy space, “Waste-to-Energy: A Financed Solution for the Green Transition”, presented by Samson Emenike Ogbu, Technical Director at Z&A, introduced a modular system for converting municipal waste into clean electricity.
Supported by over USD 1 billion in international funding, Z&A’s approach enables cities to implement scalable waste-to-energy projects that eliminate landfill dependency while promoting environmental and social benefits.
The presentation on “Building Entrepreneurial Ecosystems: Reinventing Innovation through Collaboration” explored how regional partnerships and shared networks can stimulate innovation. Using the Jersey Shore as a case study, the framework illustrated how place-based collaboration can drive entrepreneurship, sustainability, and community-led growth.
Another African highlight was the Enugu New City Development in south eastern Nigeria—a model for sustainable African urbanisation.
The new city integrates renewable energy, central water and sewage systems, underground drainage, and high-speed fibre optics. It is designed to attract both local investors and the Nigerian diaspora by offering a modern environment to live, work, and innovate.
In Europe, the Smart Village: Gaiba Vision initiative presented Italy’s “Veneto Open –Gaibledon”, an international WTA grass-court tennis tournament promoting sports tourism and community development.
Complementary projects focus on eco-tourism, renewable energy, social infrastructure, and digital connectivity, aiming to turn Gaiba into a model of rural sustainability and inclusive development.
The event features a carefully selected list of participants, each representing innovative, high-value projects shaping the future of cities worldwide.
Held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, the Mayor’s City Hall Stage runs under the theme, 'Accelerating Innovation, Investments and Impact.'
The gathering brings together city leaders, investors, developers, and innovators to explore transformative opportunities for sustainable urban growth.
At the core of the Global Cities Summit, the City Hall Stage offers a unique platform for cities and corporations to showcase impactful projects and initiatives.
Its Major Project Briefings, Urban Solutions Spotlights, and Media Moments are designed to fast-track urban development from concept to collaboration.
These sessions attract mayors, governors, developers, investors, and technical experts seeking scalable, investment-ready ventures that redefine city living.
Representing Botswana, Zotus City’s delegation took to the stage on Wednesday, the second day of the event, alongside five other global organisations presenting major development projects.
Delivering a compelling presentation titled, 'Zotus City: Africa’s Dubai of the Kalahari – Transforming Regional Trade through the Trans-Kalahari Corridor,' Simango outlined the ambitious USD 50 billion project poised to transform Botswana into a regional trade and logistics powerhouse.
Strategically located along the Trans-Kalahari Corridor (TKC)—linking Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa, Zotus City aims to position Botswana as a premier logistics and investment hub for the SADC region, connecting Africa with Asia and the Middle East.
The 4,200-hectare Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Ghanzi, developed in partnership with the Government of Botswana, has been formalised through a Tripartite Agreement between Zotus City Development Group, the TKC Secretariat, and the Botswana Investment & Trade Centre.
The project features, a masterplan designed by global firms BIG and Surbana Jurong, including a 300 MW solar power plant, regional water pipeline, expanded international airport, AI-driven data centre, and digital innovation district.
Together, these developments are expected to establish Zotus City as a model of sustainable infrastructure, economic diversification, and smart governance.
Backed by global partners such as King & Spalding and endorsed by brand ambassadors Didier Drogba and Emile Heskey, Zotus City aspires to be “Africa’s Dubai of the Kalahari.”
It will stand as a beacon of sustainable urban transformation and public-private collaboration, driving economic growth and social progress not just for Botswana, but across southern Africa.
The presentation generated considerable interest, with Simango hinting that it may soon attract investors eager to visit Botswana to explore opportunities on the ground.
Other notable presentations at the event included the Brazilian Urban Spotlight, featuring Andre Portugues, President of Miguel Pereira Tur and former Mayor of Miguel Pereira, Abilio Brunini, Mayor of Cuiabá (Mato Grosso), and Joao Marcelo, Mayor of Nova Lima (Minas Gerais).
Their presentation showcased how Brazilian cities are advancing smart governance and sustainability.
Equally captivating was the Longevity Island project in Abu Dhabi, a USD 4 billion healthcare and wellness destination unveiled by Ila Colombo of DEOND.
The world’s first comprehensive longevity-focused healthcare complex, it spans 930,000 square meters—preserving 70 per cent of its area as pristine natural landscape.
Inspired by biomimicry and “blue zone” principles, Longevity Island integrates regenerative medicine, luxury living, and environmental harmony.
Projected revenues are expected to rise from USD 307 million in 2026 to USD 1.48 billion by 2030, offering a glimpse into the future of healthcare innovation and sustainable luxury.
The Proactive Municipality: Shaping the Future Through Foresight-Driven Signals, presented by His Excellency Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, and Fida Alhammadi, Acting CEO of Planning and Governance, explored how Dubai’s urban policies are driven by long-term data and innovation strategies designed to anticipate global urban challenges.
Another highlight was the Zorrotzaurre Project from Bilbao, Spain, presented by Asier Abaunza, Councillor for Urban Planning, Strategic Projects, and Public Space.
This €250 million redevelopment initiative—driven by a partnership between the Basque Government, Bilbao City Council, and private investors—aims to transform the area into a sustainable, innovation-focused district.
The project will deliver 5,500 new homes, green spaces, and public facilities, while fostering digital and creative industries through the Zorrotzaurre Urban Innovation District.
From Croatia, Mayor Dario Hrebak of Bjelovar showcased the Wellovar Geothermal Sports and Recreation Park, the largest project in the city’s history, valued at €51 million.
Powered by geothermal and solar energy, the self-sustaining complex includes six indoor and outdoor pools and is expected to transform the city’s tourism and economy.
Bjelovar is also investing heavily in sports and infrastructure through its new Business Zone and Arena Project, designed to meet professional football league standards.
Also featured was “Education Fuels Dubai’s Growth Story”, presented by Fatma Belrehif of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), which emphasized the role of education in driving Dubai’s knowledge-based economy and global competitiveness.
Through such platforms, the Mayor’s City Hall Stage continues to position Dubai as a global centre for innovation and investment while enabling transformative partnerships that redefine the future of urban living.
For Zotus City, the opportunity to share Botswana’s smart city vision on this global stage marks a pivotal moment one that underscores Africa’s growing role in shaping tomorrow’s cities.
The following sessions of the Global Cities Summit continued to showcase ground-breaking projects and forward-thinking urban initiatives from across the globe, reaffirming the event’s role as a hub for innovation, sustainability, and investment.
One of the highlights was the launch of Circle Dubai, presented by His Excellency Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality.
The project embodies Dubai’s vision for a circular, resilient, and technology-driven city, integrating smart urban management and sustainable growth models.
Complementing this was the presentation “Smart & Sustainable Cities Beyond Borders”, which unveiled satellite-powered urban solutions designed to shape tomorrow’s sustainable cities.
Valued at USD 2.5 billion over five years, with USD 500 million–1 billion ready for deployment within the next 12 months, the initiative offers investors a powerful opportunity to align profitability with purpose.
The session, led by Amruthraj Arogyadas (Chief of Sustainability & Space), Dr. P.G. Diwakar (ISRO Chair Professor), Dr. Chinmay Hegde (Chief of Astrikos), and Naveen Kumar (Co-founder and CTO), demonstrated how space technologies and data-driven systems can accelerate sustainable urban transformation across the Asia-Pacific region.
The 2025 State of the City Report, presented by Dr. John Cowie from the Brisbane Economic Development Agency, highlighted Brisbane’s competitive advantages across health, advanced manufacturing, logistics, and the knowledge economy. The report positioned Brisbane as a global hub for sustainable growth, industry collaboration, and business investment.
Another major attraction was the Downtown Yerevan Masterplan, unveiled by Tigran Avinyan, Mayor of Yerevan. The USD 4 billion project envisions 155 high-rise towers, housing 17,000 modern apartments for about 60,000 residents. It will include a balanced mix of residential, commercial, retail, and public spaces, alongside 20.7 hectares of landscaped parks, schools, sports, and cultural
facilities—transforming Yerevan into a modern, sustainable capital.
The Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organizing Committee also drew attention with the launch of its procurement programme, presented by Jessica Reid, Chief of Staff to the Committee President.
The new digital portal will help businesses and suppliers access opportunities worth an estimated USD 2.5 billion, spanning construction, logistics, technology, and professional services in preparation for the Games.
In the green energy space, “Waste-to-Energy: A Financed Solution for the Green Transition”, presented by Samson Emenike Ogbu, Technical Director at Z&A, introduced a modular system for converting municipal waste into clean electricity.
Supported by over USD 1 billion in international funding, Z&A’s approach enables cities to implement scalable waste-to-energy projects that eliminate landfill dependency while promoting environmental and social benefits.
The presentation on “Building Entrepreneurial Ecosystems: Reinventing Innovation through Collaboration” explored how regional partnerships and shared networks can stimulate innovation. Using the Jersey Shore as a case study, the framework illustrated how place-based collaboration can drive entrepreneurship, sustainability, and community-led growth.
Another African highlight was the Enugu New City Development in south eastern Nigeria—a model for sustainable African urbanisation.
The new city integrates renewable energy, central water and sewage systems, underground drainage, and high-speed fibre optics. It is designed to attract both local investors and the Nigerian diaspora by offering a modern environment to live, work, and innovate.
In Europe, the Smart Village: Gaiba Vision initiative presented Italy’s “Veneto Open –Gaibledon”, an international WTA grass-court tennis tournament promoting sports tourism and community development.
Complementary projects focus on eco-tourism, renewable energy, social infrastructure, and digital connectivity, aiming to turn Gaiba into a model of rural sustainability and inclusive development.
