Africa-Press – Botswana. Duma Boko and Hakainde Hichilema have officially launched the Kazungula Bridge Authority, marking a major milestone in regional integration and economic cooperation between Botswana and Zambia. The new institution will oversee the management and operations of the Kazungula Bridge, a critical infrastructure link that connects the two countries and facilitates cross-border trade. Cabinet ministers and senior government officials from both nations attended the launch, reflecting the high level of political commitment behind the initiative. The establishment of the Authority signals a coordinated effort to enhance efficiency, improve trade flows, and unlock economic opportunities across the region. It also reinforces the bridge’s role as a strategic gateway for regional commerce in southern Africa.
The launch follows the signing of key bilateral agreements earlier in the week, which laid the foundation for the Authority’s structure and operations. Botswana’s Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Noah Salakae, and Zambia’s Infrastructure Minister, Charles Tayali, formalized a host country agreement that designates Botswana as the headquarters of the Kazungula Bridge Authority. Another agreement outlined joint responsibilities for the sponsorship, construction, and long-term operation of the bridge infrastructure. These agreements provide a clear governance framework, ensuring that both countries share accountability while working toward common economic goals. The structured collaboration is expected to reduce administrative challenges and create a more seamless operational environment for the bridge.
A key development announced during the launch is the transition of the Kazungula border to 24-hour operations, a move aimed at significantly improving trade efficiency. President Boko emphasized that the border will evolve from a One Stop Border Post into a nonstop border system, allowing continuous movement of goods and people. This shift is expected to reduce congestion, cut waiting times, and lower transportation costs for businesses relying on the corridor. Improved border operations will also enhance the competitiveness of the region by facilitating faster delivery of goods and strengthening supply chains. For traders and logistics companies, this development represents a practical step toward increased productivity and reliability in cross-border transactions.
The Kazungula Bridge Authority is expected to play a central role in managing the long-term sustainability and growth of this vital infrastructure. By overseeing maintenance, operations, and strategic planning, the Authority will ensure that the bridge continues to meet the demands of increasing trade volumes. It will also support efforts to attract investment, promote regional integration, and strengthen economic ties between Botswana and Zambia. The presence of high-level leadership at the launch highlights the importance of the project as a driver of development and cooperation. As trade routes expand and regional economies become more interconnected, the Authority will serve as a critical institution in maintaining efficiency and stability.
The launch of the Kazungula Bridge Authority marks a decisive step toward transforming regional trade and infrastructure management in southern Africa. By formalizing cooperation and introducing continuous border operations, Botswana and Zambia are positioning themselves as leaders in cross-border integration. The initiative not only enhances the functionality of the Kazungula Bridge but also creates new opportunities for economic growth, investment, and job creation. With strong leadership, clear agreements, and a shared vision, the Authority is set to deliver long-term benefits for both nations. This development reinforces the importance of collaboration in building resilient infrastructure that supports sustainable regional progress.
