Building upon a productive visit to Kasane just two months ago, Zambia and Botswana have significantly strengthened their partnership. The two nations signed ten Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) encompassing a diverse range of sectors critical to their mutual development.
President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia, in a statement addressed to the nation, highlighted the key areas covered by the MoUs. These include Science and Technology, Mining and Mineral development, Agriculture and Livestock management, Railway transportation, and the establishment of a dedicated Kazungula Bridge Authority (KBA). Additionally, the agreements pave the way for enhanced political consultations between the two countries.
President Hichilema emphasized the meticulous planning behind these MoUs, underscoring the commitment to achieve their objectives within set timeframes. He also expressed his deep appreciation to President Masisi of Botswana for his visit, recognizing it as a pivotal moment in solidifying the economic ties between Zambia and Botswana.
A key focus of the agreements lies in unlocking the strategic potential of the Kazungula Bridge. By leveraging this vital infrastructure, Zambia aims to transcend its landlocked status and become a “land-linked” nation. The bridge serves not only as a direct connection between Zambia and Botswana but also as a crucial link for the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to major trade corridors like Walvis Bay, Lobito, TAZARA, and Nacala.
This development holds immense promise for the future. It paves the way for more cost-effective and reliable access to maritime trade routes, boosting trade between Zambia and Botswana, stimulating economic growth, and creating much-needed jobs. Ultimately, these agreements translate into tangible benefits for the citizens of both nations.
President Hichilema further acknowledged Botswana’s remarkable track record since independence. He specifically commended their unwavering commitment to democracy, strong institutions, economic accountability, and the judicious use of mineral resources for national well-being. Zambia, he expressed, aspires to learn from Botswana’s successful model.
The MoUs encompass a diverse set of topics, including:
- Establishing a Bi-National Commission: This agreement creates a single entity to manage cooperation between the two countries, streamlining existing frameworks.
- Political Consultation: A dedicated framework for regular political dialogue on various issues like economy, politics, social matters, and technical fields.
- Kazungula Bridge Management: The agreements establish and govern the Kazungula Bridge Authority, alongside guidelines for tourism and events at the bridge, fostering smooth operations and economic activity.
- Agricultural Cooperation: This MoU paves the way for collaboration in areas such as crop production, research, commercialization, plant health, and climate-smart technologies.
- Livestock, Apiculture, and Aquaculture: A framework for collaboration in these areas will promote knowledge sharing and development in these sectors.
- Science, Technology, and Innovation: The MoU facilitates joint activities for mutual benefit, propelling advancements in these critical fields.
- Railway Link Development: This agreement allows for joint efforts to secure funding and construct a railway line connecting Mosetse in Botswana to Livingstone in Zambia via the Kazungula Bridge.
- Geoscience, Mining, and Minerals Collaboration: The MoU fosters cooperation in areas like scientific information exchange, exploration, processing, and value addition within the mining sector.
- Trade and Investment Promotion: This agreement between investment agencies from both countries aims to stimulate trade and investment activities, contributing to economic growth and job creation.