Windhoek, October 10 — H.E. Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia, warmly welcomed President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko of Botswana and his delegation to Windhoek for the Second Session of the Namibia–Botswana Bi-National Commission. This session marks a milestone in deepening the enduring partnership between the two nations grounded in shared history, mutual respect, and a vision for peace, prosperity, and regional integration.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah reflected on the achievements since the Bi-National Commission was established in September 2022, noting the significant progress made in formalizing cooperation in political, diplomatic, economic, defense, and social sectors. She highlighted that the rigorous review and renewal of bilateral agreements and Memoranda of Understanding during this session underscore the commitment to practical results that benefit the citizens of both countries.
The Commission’s agenda addresses critical areas including the improvement of legal frameworks, enhanced trade, security cooperation, and cultural integration. President Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized the shared goals of job creation, youth and women empowerment, and sustainable development, aligning Namibia’s development priorities such as agriculture, mining, energy, and tourism with Botswana’s Economic Transformation Programme, showing closely aligned ambitions.
Key achievements since the inaugural session include the implementation of the One-Stop Border Post at the Trans-Kalahari/Mamuno border, 24-hour border operations, acceptance of national ID cards for cross-border travel, and ongoing feasibility studies for the Trans-Kalahari Railway project, expected to enhance regional trade connectivity. In addition, Botswana’s Vaccine Institute has supplied Namibia with millions of doses of livestock vaccines, fostering trust and partnership in protecting agricultural livelihoods.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah called for an active focus on converting robust political relations into impactful economic growth and sustainable development that uplift the socio-economic wellbeing of both nations. She also stressed the importance of Namibia and Botswana jointly advocating for the reform of global institutions such as the United Nations to reflect the voices of developing countries.
The session occurs at a pivotal time marked by renewed hope for peace in various African regions and commemorations of significant milestones for women’s roles in peace and security. The President extended congratulations to Botswana for their historic gold medal in the men’s 4×400 meters relay at the 2025 World Athletics Championships.
In closing, President Nandi-Ndaitwah expressed optimism that this Second Session would lay a durable foundation for future collaborations, benefiting the peoples of Namibia and Botswana now and into the future.
