By Ketshepile More
LOBATSE – The Minister of Transport and Public Works, Mr Eric Molale, received and signed the Trans Kalahari Corridor (TKC) pledge in Lobatse. Mr Molale welcomed 30 cyclists from Botswana, South Africa, and Namibia, who arrived in Lobatse on Wednesday from Rustenburg, South Africa.
The TKC pledge was also signed in Rustenburg by South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Transport, Mr Lisa Mangcu, on behalf of the Transport Minister, Sindisiwe Chikunga. Mr John Mutorwa, the Minister of Works and Transport for Namibia, is scheduled to sign the pledge in Namibia next week.
The three member states committed to facilitating the smooth movement of goods and people along the TKC by streamlining requirements and controls to reduce transport costs and transit times. They also vowed to enhance safety and security through joint law enforcement operations and border controls, as well as maintain the TKC road to cater to end-users’ needs. Additionally, the member states aim to promote development initiatives along the corridor to improve the livelihoods of the people residing there. Mr Molale expressed the desire for the TKC to grow significantly and positively impact the lives of citizens in the three states.
Mr Molale emphasised that corridors like the TKC were crucial for facilitating trade between countries, noting the 20 years of existence and ongoing efforts to harmonise development and infrastructural expansion along the borders with South Africa. Botswana plans similar enhancements at Mamuno and other border crossings to facilitate the movement of goods and people more efficiently.
BOPA
