Story by Oleen Ndori, Foreign Desk Editor
Harare and Gaborone have expressed satisfaction with the implementation of agreed areas of cooperation within the Zimbabwe-Botswana Bi-National Commission towards sustainable growth of the two countries.
2024 marks 58 years since Botswana gained independence from British colonial rule.
In celebrating the day in Harare this Thursday, Botswana’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Her Excellency Sarah Molosiwa applauded the cordial ties between the two countries that have seen engagements in mining, agriculture, education and immigration, among others.
“Besides the exchange of high-level visits and interaction, we have noted with satisfaction that our two countries continue to enjoy warm and very excellent relations. This enduring relationship is not only underpinned by democratic principles or good governance and the rule of law. But it is also anchored on very close family ties, a common culture and a rich history that predates the formalisation of our bilateral relations.
“Our two countries, ladies and gentlemen, have continued successfully to convene with the framework of the Bi-National Commission, the BNC. This is the platform that facilitates regular engagement for evaluation of progress. About the implementation of our decisions as well as the strategic direction of our cooperation. The last session of the Bi-National Commission was successfully held in Maun this past February.
“The growing and broadening of bilateral cooperation between our two countries within the BNC framework In all the sectors of human development, which include, among others, agriculture, mining, environment, tourism, immigration, Transport science and technology, health, defence and security, housing, trade and investment, just to mention a few. While we host, we note with appreciation the considerable amount of cooperation between the two countries,” she said.
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister, Ambassador Frederick Shava said the Zimbabwe Botswana Bi-National Commission has yielded positive results as the country seeks to achieve an upper middle-income society by 2030.
“Your Excellency, we value and appreciate the assistance your government is giving us in animal husbandry. In particular, the provision of vaccines that are manufactured by the Botswana Vaccine Institute, which have contributed a great deal towards the prevention and cure of foot and mouth disease. I would also like to take this opportunity to note the positive results of the joint efforts to fight the challenge of cross-border cattle rustling along our borders. In the context of the regional, continental and international fora, I would like to commend you, Your Excellency, and the Government of Botswana for your commitment and invaluable contribution to the promotion of stronger regional cooperation and unity,” he said.
Ambassador Shava added, “Through regional cooperation and unity between and among our nations, we have been able to foster peace, stability and inclusive development. In this regard, let me reiterate that the Government and people of Zimbabwe were honoured to have the President of the Republic of Botswana, His Excellency Dr Mokgweetsi E.K. Masisi and other colleagues from the region, in Harare, during the recently held 44th Ordinary Summit of the SADC Heads of State and Government. We count on your continued support during Zimbabwe’s chairmanship so that we speedily and efficiently implement the Summit’s decisions to propel our region to success, prosperity and, above all, stability. The Government and people of Zimbabwe appreciate the acceptance by the President of the Republic of Botswana, His Excellency Dr. Mokgweetsi E.K. Masisi, to take part in the Museum of African Liberation Project. The Government of Zimbabwe is committed to working very closely with you in the preservation of Africa’s culture, history and the broader African narrative.”
The event was also an opportunity for Zimbabwe to wish Botswana well as the neighbouring country prepares for presidential elections set for the 30th of October.
