Africa-Press – Ethiopia. Botswana and Ethiopia have been building strong bilateral ties, with both countries expressing renewed commitment to strengthening existing cooperation in key areas, including agriculture, aviation, trade, and peacebuilding, according to Botswana’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Tebelelo Boang.
In an exclusive interview with the Ethiopian News Agency, Botswana’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Tebelelo Boang, described the relationship between the two countries as “excellent,” rooted in shared values such as respect for the rule of law, African unity, and multilateralism.
“We are people who share common values… and we firmly believe in African unity,” said Ambassador Boang, highlighting the warmth and openness that define both societies.
Agriculture stands at the forefront of this growing partnership. Ambassador Boang confirmed that Ethiopia and Botswana are finalizing a memorandum of understanding to boost collaboration in agricultural development.
Botswana, widely recognized for its high-quality beef and veterinary services, sees strong potential in working with Ethiopia, which has made notable progress in both livestock and crop production.
The Botswana Vaccine Institute, accredited by the World Organisation for Animal Health, manufactures veterinary medicines that could support Ethiopia’s livestock health initiatives and food security efforts.
He also praised Ethiopia’s advancements in soil mapping and its leadership in the leather industry. Botswana is eager to draw from Ethiopia’s experience to develop its own leather production and agricultural value chains.
Connectivity between the two nations has grown, notably through Ethiopian Airlines, which operates daily flights to Gaborone and launched a new route in June 2024 to Maun, Botswana’s key tourism hub.
A partnership between Ethiopian Airlines and the Botswana Meat Commission enables the air transport of Botswana’s premium beef to global markets, boosting trade.
Tourism and cultural exchange are also seen as promising areas of cooperation. Ambassador Boang noted that both countries, rich in natural beauty and heritage, could benefit from stronger collaboration in the sector.
On the diplomatic front, Boang highlighted the shared commitment of the two countries to regional peace and security.
“Both countries currently serve on the African Union Peace and Security Council and share a strong commitment to promoting peace and stability across the continent,” he said.
Ambassador Boang also commended Ethiopia’s peacekeeping role, particularly in Somalia, and reaffirmed Botswana’s support for Ethiopia’s leadership in the region.
He emphasized that both nations are committed to a rules-based multilateral system and continue to work closely in forums such as the United Nations, the African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), and the Group of 77.
With expanding cooperation and shared priorities, Ethiopia and Botswana are advancing a model of intra-African collaboration for sustainable development, peace, and prosperity.
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