No US Base At Thebephatshwa: Botswana Warns Neighbours Not To Be Fooled Amid Gulf Crisis

No US Base At Thebephatshwa! Botswana Warns Neighbours: Don’t Be Fooled By Lies Amid Gulf Crisis

GABORONE — The Government of Botswana has moved to dismiss persistent rumours regarding the presence of a United States military base at Thebephatshwa Air Base, insisting the facility remains under exclusive Botswana Defence Force control. The statement comes as global attention focuses on US military assets following a series of attacks on American facilities in Gulf states.

Officials in Gaborone released a formal statement on March 17, 2026, pushing back against what they describe as recurring misinformation. The government expressed concern that such claims, if left unchecked, could have serious implications for regional diplomatic relations at a time of heightened international tension.

Government Position On Thebephatshwa

Moeti Mohwasa, Minister for State President, Defence and Security, outlined the government’s position regarding ownership and operation of the air base.

“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.”

According to the Minister, the facility serves specific national and regional purposes. These include enhancing emergency response capabilities, supporting regional peacekeeping operations, facilitating humanitarian efforts, and maintaining the operational readiness of Botswana’s armed forces. The statement makes no mention of any foreign military involvement in these activities.

Government Communications head Tuduetso Mokgosi reinforced the message, stating that the base exists for Botswana’s national priorities and regional cooperation objectives. According to officials, no foreign military maintains any operational control or permanent presence at the facility.

Regional Implications Of Misinformation

The timing of the statement reflects growing concern within government circles about the potential consequences of unchecked speculation. With US bases in the Gulf region coming under attack from Iran, any nation perceived as hosting American forces could face unintended security implications.

Tuduetso Mokgosi addressed the broader impact of misinformation directly.

“Misinformation, particularly when amplified across borders, has the potential to create unnecessary misunderstanding among citizens and between neighbouring countries.”

The statement emphasised that while robust debate on national matters is welcome in a democracy, discussions regarding national security must be grounded in verified facts rather than speculation. The government warned that false narratives risk undermining trust between nations that have historically maintained stable diplomatic relations.

Response To Persistent Allegations

Without naming specific individuals, the statement appeared to address repeated claims by South African opposition politician Julius Malema, who has alleged that Botswana hosts a US military facility intended to threaten Pretoria. These claims have circulated for some time despite consistent denials from Gaborone.

Foreign Minister Fenio Butale previously addressed parliament on March 4, describing such claims as unacceptable and a threat to Botswana’s national security and international relations. The latest statement represents a continuation of the government’s efforts to correct what it views as dangerous falsehoods.

The statement issued clear guidance to media outlets and political commentators.

“We urge all commentators, media outlets and political actors to verify facts before making public statements about Botswana’s defence posture. Misinformation serves no one’s interests and undermines trust between nations,” Mokgosi said.

Commitment To Regional Relations

Despite the frustration generated by persistent rumours, the government reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining constructive relationships with all neighbouring countries.

“Botswana values its strong relationships with all its neighbours, and remains committed to regional cooperation, dialogue and mutual respect,” Mokgosi added.

The statement concluded by reiterating the government’s position that Thebephatshwa Air Base remains a Botswana Defence Force installation, fully controlled by Botswana, for Botswana’s stated purposes and regional stability objectives.