Video source: High Great Technology Co., Ltd
GABORONE, Sept. 10 – Hundreds of drones illuminated the night sky over Botswana’s capital Gaborone on Tuesday, creating colourful formations symbolising China-Botswana friendship in a display combining technology, art and cultural exchange.
Held at the University of Botswana Stadium, the show featured formations depicting Botswana’s national animal, the zebra, a panda, Botswana’s national flag, the Great Wall of China and other symbols highlighting cooperation between the two countries.
Chinese Ambassador to Botswana Fan Yong said the performance represented more than technological innovation.
“The Drone Light Show is not only a fusion of technology and art, but also a celebration of the bonds of friendship between Botswana and China,” Ambassador Fan said.
He said that over 51 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, China-Botswana relations have continued to make new achievements.
The event comes as Botswana prepares to celebrate the 60th anniversary of its independence and during the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges.
Gao Haoran, Project Manager at Shenzhen HighGreat Innovation Technology Development Co., Ltd., said the show was designed to strengthen people-to-people exchanges through modern technological art.
“The event builds a bridge for people-to-people exchanges between China and Botswana through modern technological art,” Gao said.
According to Gao, the project forms part of the “Silk Road Ten Thousand Miles · Colorful Africa” series and was initiated by the Silk Road Ten Thousand Miles media team of Shaanxi Radio and Television Group.
The event was organised in collaboration with the Chinese Embassy in Botswana, Botswana’s Ministry of International Relations and the Ministry of Sport and Arts, with the partners coordinating arrangements including the venue, airspace, security and other logistical requirements.
Gao said hundreds of drones were programmed to create dynamic light patterns combining Chinese cultural symbols with elements familiar to Botswana audiences.
He said the performance also demonstrated China’s scientific and technological innovation while creating a new platform for people-to-people exchange.
Spectator Itumeleng Jopi said the show was a great way to celebrate Botswana’s 60th anniversary of independence while also highlighting cooperation between Botswana and China.
He said the performance gave members of the public an opportunity to experience Chinese technology in a memorable way.