Namibia and Zambia have taken a significant step towards enhancing regional integration and trade facilitation by formalizing their commitment to establish a One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) at the Katima Mulilo Border Post.
Signed in Katima Mulilo, this bilateral agreement aims to streamline cross-border operations, combining immigration and customs procedures into a single process to reduce time and costs associated with border crossings.
Representing Namibia, Zambezi Regional Governor Lawrence Sampofu, and Zambia’s Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Chipoka Mulenga, underscored the agreement’s importance in fostering closer economic ties between the two countries.
The OSBP initiative is expected to remove bottlenecks in regional trade infrastructure, promoting easier movement of goods and people, thereby boosting regional trade and economic cooperation within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
Governor Sampofu highlighted the strategic significance of the OSBP for the Zambezi Region, anticipating increased trade volumes that will stimulate local economies and create employment opportunities.
Minister Mulenga emphasized Zambia’s commitment to enhancing trade facilitation and leveraging its geographic location to promote regional integration and economic growth.
Located along the Zambezi River, the Katima Mulilo Border Post is poised to become a pivotal entry point, facilitating seamless trade and contributing to regional economic competitiveness.
The establishment of the OSBP signifies a milestone in regional cooperation, reflecting both countries’ shared vision for sustainable development and prosperity in the SADC region.
