Niël Terblanché
In a bilateral agreement signed on Friday, Namibia and Zambia have committed to the establishment of a One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) at the Katima Mulilo Border Post.
This key agreement is set to streamline border procedures, enhance trade, and strengthen security between the two neighbouring nations.
The signing ceremony took place in Katima Mulilo and was attended by key representatives from both countries.
Namibia’s delegation was led by the Zambezi Regional Governor, Lawrence Sampofu, while Zambia was represented by the Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Chipoka Mulenga.
The agreement is a substantial milestone in the longstanding relationship between Namibia and Zambia.
Sampofu reiterated the strategic importance of the OSBP and said: “This agreement is a testament to the strong relationship between Namibia and Zambia. It will not only facilitate smoother and more efficient cross-border trade but also bolster security and economic cooperation in the region.”
The new OSBP aims to consolidate border control operations from both countries at a single location, significantly reducing transit times and improving the efficiency of customs procedures.
This streamlined approach is expected to facilitate trade and promote economic growth within the region, reinforcing the bilateral ties that are crucial for regional stability and development.
Zambia’s Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Chipoka Mulenga, shared the governor’s sentiments by also pointing out the broader implications for regional trade.
“The signing of this agreement will cement relations between the two countries for years to come and will culminate in an important One-Stop Border Post between the countries. This will further position us as leaders in intra-African trade, promoting economic integration on the continent,” Mulenga said.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve infrastructure and promote economic integration within Africa.
The Katima Mulilo OSBP will be the second such facility for Namibia, following the ongoing construction of the OSBP at the Trans-Kalahari/Mamuno Border Post, which is at an advanced stage of development.
The operationalisation of these border posts is anticipated to begin soon, further enhancing Namibia’s role as a critical hub for trade in the region.
The OSBP is expected to have significant economic benefits, including the facilitation of trade and the reduction of barriers to the movement of goods and services.
By improving the efficiency of customs procedures, the OSBP will help reduce costs and time for businesses, fostering a more competitive economic environment.
