Niël Terblanché
The governments of Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa have reaffirmed their commitment to the Trans Kalahari Corridor (TKC), a crucial trade route connecting these nations, through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The agreement, signed in Walvis Bay on November 3, 2003, is aimed at enhancing trade relationships and ensuring the smooth movement of goods and people along the corridor and throughout the region.
The MoU represents a shared vision among the three participating nations, providing a foundation for collaborative efforts to streamline trade processes and facilitate efficient transportation along the TKC.
Ankwetse Hunda, spokesperson for TKC Marketing and Communications, stressed the significance of this agreement, while also pointing to its potential to foster prosperity and security in the region.
In accordance with Articles 2.2 and 4.2 of the TKCMC MoU, the TKCMC Member States are preparing to conduct the 13th TKCMC Joint Law Enforcement Operation (JLEO) in Swakopmund, Namibia. These joint operations, held twice a year on a rotational basis, bring together law enforcement agents and stakeholders involved in trade facilitation from all three member states.
Earlier this year, Botswana hosted the 12th JLEO in Jwaneng, and South Africa is scheduled to host the subsequent operation next year.
During these events, law enforcement representatives collaborate to establish checkpoints along the Trans Kalahari Corridor, promoting compliance with law enforcement, enhancing visibility, and ensuring safety and security.
The main objectives of the JLEO include the promotion of compliance with law enforcement along the TKC; increasing law enforcement visibility on the corridor; the promotion of safety and security; enforcing laws and regulations related to traffic safety and transportation; enforcing laws related to transport, including weight limits and hazardous materials rules; identifying areas for harmonization; and conducting joint training programs.
Hunda stressed that the collaborative effort among Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa represents a significant step toward strengthening trade relations, effectively managing and developing the Trans Kalahari Corridor, and fostering prosperity and security across the region.
This ongoing partnership reflects the determination of the three member states to achieve a brighter future by navigating the TKC to safety.
The theme of the 13th TKCMC Joint Law Enforcement Operation is “Safer Corridor #Brighter Future: Navigating the TKC to Safety.”
The event, taking place from November 21 to 26, 2023, emphasizes the collective commitment to ensuring the safety and efficiency of the Trans Kalahari Corridor.
