Niël Terblanché
Namibia and Botswana have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing regional trade and economic cooperation through the development of the Trans-Kalahari Railway (TKR) project, with construction set to begin in January 2025.
This was confirmed during a meeting between deputy prime minister and minister of works and transport, John Mutorwa and his counterpart from Botswana, Eric Molale, in Windhoek last week.
The two ministers, joined by senior officials and representatives of the Trans-Kalahari Corridor Secretariat, discussed ongoing progress and the Trans-Kalahari Corridor (TKC) and Trans-Kalahari Railway (TKR) projects.
The TKC, operational since 2003, has simplified customs operations and established itself as a major trade route for both the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Southern African Customs Union (SACU).
According to a joint communiqué issued after the meeting, the project continues to enhance trade, with recent milestones including the launch of a cycling event that promotes the corridor and supports regional tourism.
Plans for another cycling event are already underway, further emphasising the corridor’s growing role in regional development.
One of the more pressing topics was the TKR project, a 1 500-kilometre railway line aimed at linking Botswana’s vast mineral resources with Namibia’s Atlantic port at Walvis Bay.
Since the project’s conception in 2010, both governments have strived to overcome logistical challenges to launch this key initiative, particularly in light of South Africa’s struggling logistics network.
The TKR aims to provide an alternative route for regional exports, with both private and international investors expressing interest. The construction phase is now set for January 2025, following the completion of a rigorous pre-qualification process.
The TKR has gained momentum as delays and capacity constraints in South Africa’s ports create incentives for an alternative export corridor.
Both ministers view the railway line as a critical step in reducing transportation costs and opening new trade routes for bulk goods, such as minerals and agricultural products, into global markets.
The project not only enhances Botswana and Namibia’s connectivity but also strengthens their appeal as trade hubs for Southern Africa.
According to the joint communiqué, the ministers also discussed other recent developments, which include the opening of the Mamuno/Trans-Kalahari border crossing for 24-hour operations and the use of identity cards for travel between Botswana and Namibia, which are enhancing ease of movement along the corridor.
These measures are expected to facilitate smoother transport and logistics, a significant improvement for traders and travellers in both countries.
Mutorwa expressed his gratitude for Botswana’s support in advancing the projects, emphasising that the improved transport links would yield long-term economic benefits. A
The ministers noted their shared goal of creating a prosperous future through sustainable infrastructure and enhanced cross-border cooperation.
Both ministers expressed optimism that these projects will further solidify the bond between Namibia and Botswana.