Africa-Press – Botswana. Botswana’s President, Duma Boko, has called on African nations to break free from dependency on external trade. President Boko described Africa as standing at an ‘inflection point’ in its history, where reliance on external powers has left the continent vulnerable to their decisions. “This dependency stems from a trap of self-doubt and division, where we have failed to value ourselves and our African neighbours,” he said.
He called for a transformative shift, urging African nations to ‘reach across borders, break down barriers, and strengthen intra-African trade’ as the path to survival and prosperity.
The President highlighted the dire consequences of inaction, noting that hundreds of thousands of Africans remain trapped in poverty and unemployment. “Africa is in distress, and its cry demands our response,” he declared, urging SADC and the continent to translate rhetoric into tangible outcomes through bold, progressive actions.
For Eswatini, President Boko’s message resonates strongly. As a signatory to the SADC Regional Development Fund, the Kingdom is committed to enhancing regional trade through initiatives like one-stop border posts, which streamline the movement of goods, services, and people.
Eswatini’s focus on diversifying its economy beyond sugar exports and supporting small and medium enterprises complements the call for intra-African trade. Collaborative efforts with SADC partners can unlock new markets and create jobs, fostering economic resilience for the Kingdom and the region.
President Boko also reflected on his own country’s democratic milestone, referencing Angola’s historic election in October 2024. He praised former President of Botswana Mokgweetsi Masisi for peacefully handing over power after his party’s defeat, a move that strengthened Botswana’s democratic credentials. “Let Botswana’s example be a guiding star for Africa,” he said, urging SADC nations to uphold peaceful democratic transitions and focus on addressing continental challenges.
The President paid tribute to women leaders, particularly Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of Namibia, for bringing compassionate leadership to the region’s complex challenges. He also honoured SADC’s founding pioneers, whose vision continues to inspire unity and progress.
President Boko called for a departure from traditional approaches, advocating for “radical and progressive ideas” to address poverty, unemployment, and inequality. He emphasised that SADC’s success depends on collective action, with no nation left behind. “We need each other desperately,” he said, urging African countries to value their interdependence and build a united, prosperous future.
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