Namibia and Zambia began discussions to operationalise the Katima Mulilo One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) at the inaugural Joint Technical Committee (JTC) meeting.
The meeting underway in Sesheke, Zambia, from 13 to 17 January 2025, focuses on establishing governance structures and frameworks to implement the June 2024 bilateral agreement aimed at improving trade and border efficiency.
The week-long meeting is led by the Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) and comprises representatives from various border agencies.
Jacqueline Gawanas, the acting Head of Customs and Excise at NamRA, highlighted the significance of the meeting in advancing the June 2024 agreement.
“This inaugural JTC meeting aims to establish the governance framework for the OSBP by defining the roles, responsibilities, and composition of its subcommittees. These foundational steps are crucial for operationalising the Katima Mulilo OSBP, enhancing border efficiency, and strengthening trade relations between the two nations,” she said.
She expressed confidence in the JTC’s ability to guide the operationalisation process effectively.
“The agenda for this week reflects the depth of our commitment to addressing every aspect required for the success of the OSBP. Over the coming days, we will engage in comprehensive discussions to finalise governance structures, sub-committee mandates, and operational frameworks that align with the principles of inclusiveness, innovation and efficiency,” she added.
Gawanas also noted that this includes critical areas such as infrastructure, ICT systems and procedures, which form the foundation of a functional OSBP.
She said the Katima Mulilo Border Post serves as a critical artery for the movement of goods and people between Namibia and Zambia, and the establishment of an operational OSBP symbolises the countries’ unwavering commitment to efficiency, collaboration and prosperity.
During the meeting’s opening session on Tuesday, Derrick Sikombe, Acting Director of Domestic Trade and Commerce at Zambia’s Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, emphasised the importance of the discussions in laying the groundwork for the OSBP’s implementation and eventual opening.
The governance structure being developed will provide a blueprint for coordinated and efficient border operations, supporting trade facilitation, security and regional cooperation.
