Africa-Press – Namibia. The Minister of International Relations and Trade, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, has expressed optimism about strengthening trade and investment ties between Namibia and Botswana, particularly under the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“We must now move with renewed urgency and purpose to scale up trade and investment, particularly under the auspices of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). This landmark agreement offers us a transformative platform to eliminate barriers, harmonise standards, and enable the free movement of goods, services and people across Africa,” Ashipala-Musavyi said.
The minister made these remarks during the Botswana–Namibia Bi-National Commission (BNC) Ministerial Session, currently taking place in Windhoek. Highlighting the strong bilateral relations between the two countries, the minister emphasised that there is considerable potential to deepen cooperation.
“Our two countries have an opportunity and responsibility to advance a model of regional cooperation that serves our citizens and strengthens Africa’s position in the global arena. We are Southern Africans, but we are also Africans. We are both active members of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union. Our bilateral cooperation and trade give essence to SADC. Namibia and Botswana’s cooperation and trade are critical building blocks of the Africa We Want, through the African Continental Free Trade Area,” Ashipala-Musavyi explained.
She emphasised that the two countries should fully leverage the AfCFTA by improving connectivity, especially through enhanced road and rail infrastructure.
“On the economic front, our cooperation has made steady progress, particularly in the areas of trade, transport, energy and water management. The Trans-Kalahari Corridor is a vital initiative that exemplifies the potential of infrastructure-led development,” she added.
She also highlighted the importance of political collaboration in key areas including energy, agriculture, infrastructure development, trade facilitation, education, science and technology, tourism, and culture.
“Equally important is our cooperation in defence and security, where peace and stability remain indispensable for good neighbourliness – which in turn fosters an environment where sustainable development can be achieved,” the minister added.
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