Trade volumes between Namibia and Botswana facilitated through the Trans-Kalahari Corridor have seen a gradual growth over recent years, with 313,339 metric tonnes transported so far in 2024.
The corridor handled 50,128 metric tonnes in 2019/2020, increasing to over 349,569 metric tonnes from 2020 to 2023.
Governor of the Erongo Region, Neville Andre Itope, highlighted the region’s strategic importance in Southern African trade.
“The port of Walvis Bay is a gateway for our neighbouring countries and the African continent at large,” he said.
“I’m convinced that by the end of this year, we will surpass last year’s figures. This corridor serves as a vital link, enhancing the efficiency of cargo movement between our countries, and reducing transit times and costs,” Itope added.
He noted that the corridor has significantly boosted trade volumes, especially in mining equipment, agricultural products and consumer goods.
Erongo has also become a popular destination for tourists from Botswana.
“The region offers a diverse range of attractions, from the majestic dunes of the Namib Desert to the rich marine life along our coastline. The influx of tourists from Botswana not only strengthens our cultural ties but also contributes significantly to our local economy, creating jobs and promoting sustainable development,” Itope noted.
Governor Itope encouraged Namibians to visit Botswana, highlighting its rich historical, cultural and natural tourist appeal.
Looking forward, he said the Erongo Region aims to enhance trade relations with Botswana and other partners.
“We are continuously investing in infrastructure development at the port to increase its capacity and efficiency. Moreover, we are exploring new opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, fisheries and manufacturing, which hold immense potential for mutual growth,” said Itope at the nineth Swakopmund International Trade Expo (SWAiTEX)
He said the theme for this year’s expo: ‘Efficient Connectivity and Resource Beneficiation for Sustainable Growth in Africa,’ is not just a slogan but a call to action for collaboration innovation.
Meanwhile, the President of Botswana, Mokgweetsi Masisi in his keynote address said there is significant potential for enhanced cooperation between Botswana and Namibia.
“Both countries share common strengths in areas such as animal disease control protocols, rangeland management practices, abattoir and meat hygiene practices, wildlife conservation strategies, diamonds, and more recently, copper,” he said.
He also noted that both nations provide distinctive tourism experiences and are renowned for their sought-after wildlife safari offerings.
“By engaging in joint marketing efforts, our countries can extract more value from them. Our two countries have both ratified comparable regional agreements, specifically the Southern Africa Development Community Free Trade Protocol and the Tripartite Free Trade Area Agreement,” he said.
