Cresta Marakanelo Announces Botsalo Hotel Transition

Palapye: Cresta Marakanelo Limited ("CML") and the Botsalo-Nsunge Family ("Parties") today jointly announce the transition of Cresta Botsalo Hotel, operated by CML, to Botsalo Hotel, marking the conclusion of an almost 20-year lease between the two parties.

Effective 31 May 2026, CML will exit the property, handing over stewardship to the Botsalo-Nsunge family, the property's owners. CML has confirmed that the decision not to renew the lease aligns with its broader strategic direction and portfolio optimisation strategy.

Both parties have prioritised a seamless and non-disruptive transition for guests, partners, and stakeholders. All existing bookings made at Cresta Botsalo will be fully honoured at Botsalo Hotel, with no changes to confirmed reservations, rates, or service expectations. Guests can therefore expect continuity in their travel plans and overall service experience.

This transition reflects a shared commitment to continuity, legacy preservation, and responsible business practices.

The Botsalo property holds a long-standing place in Botswana's hospitality sector. Following the passing of the founding patriarch, Mr Botsalo Nsunge, and his wife, Galefete Nsunge, the family, now led by the next generation, has reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining and growing this legacy while preserving the hotel's identity and contribution to the local economy.

Employee Continuity and Operational Support
A key priority for both parties is the protection of livelihoods and operational stability. The majority of employees currently based at Cresta Botsalo are expected to be retained under the new Botsalo Hotel structure.

To ensure continuity of standards and operational excellence at the hotel, CML has pledged to provide structured advisory and handover support to the family, at no cost, through September 2026. This support will include:

• Setting up operational systems and processes
• Advisory support on financial management and accounting frameworks
• Supplier and service provider integration
• General hotel management training

The Parties have also agreed on a structured handover of furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E) to ensure operations continue without interruption.

Statements from the Parties
Managing Director of Cresta Marakanelo Limited, Mokwena Morulane, said:

"Cresta Botsalo has been an important part of our portfolio for almost two decades. We are proud of the role we have played in its growth and remain committed to ensuring a smooth transition that protects both employees and guests. Importantly, all guest bookings will be honoured, and service continuity will be maintained under the new management."

A representative of the Botsalo-Nsunge family added:

"Botsalo Hotel carries deep personal and historical significance for our family. As we take over operations, we do so with a strong commitment to preserving our parents' legacy, protecting jobs, and maintaining the trust of our guests. We look forward to welcoming all guests under the Botsalo Hotel name, with all existing bookings fully honoured. The family would also like to extend its gratitude to Cresta Marakanelo for the mutually beneficial relationship over the years and for making the transition as smooth as possible for us."

Looking Ahead
Both Cresta Marakanelo and the Botsalo-Nsunge family have expressed confidence that the transition will position Botsalo Hotel for sustained success while preserving its heritage and strengthening its contribution to Botswana's tourism and hospitality sector.

About Cresta Hotels
Cresta Hotels is one of Southern Africa's leading hotel management groups, operating business and resort hotels in Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa. Cresta Hotels run a total of 18 hotels; 12 in Botswana, 5 in Zimbabwe, and 1 in Cape Town, South Africa, all filled with African heart and soul.