Africa-Press – Namibia. PRESIDENT Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has expressed confidence in the progress of the ongoing Trans-Kalahari Railway feasibility study, highlighting that the project could pave the way for enhanced connectivity between Botswana’s mineral-rich zones and Namibia’s major ports.
“I am also encouraged by the progress made on the Trans-Kalahari Railway ongoing feasibility study. This project can potentially connect Botswana’s mineral-rich regions with Namibia’s major ports, thereby transforming trade and economic integration across Southern Africa,” the president said.
She made these remarks at the official opening of the Heads of State Summit of the Namibia–Botswana Bi-National Commission (BNC). The session aims to review progress in key areas of cooperation between Namibia and Botswana – including diplomatic, legal, economic, social, defence and security matters – while also exploring new avenues for partnership and regional collaboration.
“Since the inaugural Bi-National Commission held in 2022, Namibia and Botswana have achieved significant milestones in implementing the decisions adopted then. In this regard, I am particularly pleased to note the One-Stop Border Post implementation at Trans-Kalahari / Mamuno, located on the trade corridor, which connects Gaborone with the Walvis Bay port, facilitating a streamlined customs process. In addition, the introduction of 24-hour border operations and the acceptance of national identity cards for cross-border travel have substantially reduced transport costs and transit times, thereby enhancing regional trade,” the president said.
She further noted that the two countries have reached other important milestones as well, particularly in agricultural cooperation, with a focus on livestock health.
“Last year, Botswana and Namibia took that cooperation even further by signing a three-year agreement for the continued supply of livestock vaccines through Botswana Vaccine Institute (BVI). I am pleased to note that the first delivery was made in February 2025. This partnership is a reflection of our shared vision for a region that is self-reliant, healthy and secure, protecting our livestock, securing our farmers’ livelihoods, and strengthening the foundation of food security and trade for generations to come,” the president said.
According to President Nandi-Ndaitwah, the continued collaboration between Namibia and Botswana across various sectors exemplifies the multifaceted partnership the two nations seek to enhance. She emphasised Namibia’s appreciation of bilateral trade with Botswana, including in cement and charcoal, and called on the BNC to address trade barriers affecting these products to benefit both nations.
“Our collaboration extends beyond bilateral issues to regional, continental, and global matters. We are living in an age where multilateral cooperation is being redefined, and challenged. It is important therefore to defend and uphold the principles of multilateral cooperation, international law, including humanitarian law, and human rights. Namibia and Botswana have always stood firm on this, and this is the time to remain steadfast,” the president added.
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