Niël Terblanché
Namibia and Botswana have commenced with a trial run for the Mamuno One-Stop Border Post (OSBP).
This trial, which began on Monday, allows people travelling between Namibia and Botswana to clear customs and immigration for both countries at a single point, streamlining the process and reducing waiting times.
The new facility is situated at the Trans-Kalahari border post on the main route from Walvis Bay to Johannesburg.
Leslie Mlungisi Mpofu, Executive Director of the Trans Kalahari Corridor Secretariat, expressed optimism about the trial run and said that despite a few initial challenges, the overall process is running smoothly.
“We already experienced a few challenges, but everything is going well,” Mpofu said.
He added that officials from both countries are actively working to resolve any teething issues.
Several vehicles and international visitors took advantage of the new system.
Mpofu said the primary aim of the trial is to assess the operational efficiency and functionality of the OSBP, including the effectiveness of new processes designed to facilitate smoother cross-border movement.
One of the key features of this initiative is the integration of customs clearance systems between Botswana and Namibia, enabling pre-clearance and itemisation of transit cargo declarations.
This system eliminates the need for transit cargo consolidation and aligns with international best practices for accurate record-keeping of goods in transit.
Namibia and Botswana finalised a bilateral agreement during the first Bi-National Commission session in September 2022, which laid the foundation for the OSBP at Mamuno.
This agreement is part of a broader effort to enhance the efficiency of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Transport Development Corridors, which are crucial for regional economic integration.
Historically, the Mamuno border post has been a vital link on the Trans-Kalahari Corridor, facilitating trade and travel between the two nations.
The decision to implement a one-stop border post reflects the commitment of both countries to reduce congestion and improve the flow of goods and people across their shared border.
He added that this development is expected to contribute to regional development and economic integration efforts.
“The trial run of the Mamuno OSBP marks a major milestone in the ongoing collaboration between Namibia and Botswana, as both nations continue to strengthen their bilateral ties and enhance cross-border cooperation,” Mpofu said.
Windhoek Observer has reported previously that Mamuno OSBP is part of a broader strategy by both governments to improve cross-border infrastructure and facilitate regional trade.
Other parts of Africa have successfully implemented the OSBP concept, such as the Chirundu OSBP between Zambia and Zimbabwe, which has reduced border crossing times and boosted trade efficiency.
The implementation at Mamuno is expected to bring similar benefits, further solidifying the Trans-Kalahari Corridor as a key trade route in Southern Africa.
