By: Josia Shigwedha

Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi stated that there is a possible collaboration between Namibia and Botswana in the energy sector to set up a shared fuel storage in Walvis Bay. 

Masisi, who highlighted several collaborative efforts between the two countries, was speaking during the official opening of the annual Swakopmund International trade expo (SWAiTEX) on Wednesday. The event was organised by the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI). 

Masisi highlighted the importance of events like the expo as tools for promoting trade and showcasing investment opportunities. He indicated that there is significant potential for enhanced cooperation between the two countries, noting that despite the warm relations, there is still much untapped economic potential in their bilateral prospects. 

Furthermore, Masisi expressed admiration for Namibia’s emergence as key hub for oil exploration, a development that will elevate the country’s economic prosperity. 

“Another potential area for collaboration exists in the energy sector,where Botswana oil company has initiated discussions with the Namibian National Petroleum Corporation to explore possibilities for cooperation in establishing shared fuel storage facilities in Walvis Bay,” remarked Masisi. He stated that discussions include joint efforts for fuel transportation and coordinated approached towards sourcing oil from Angola. 

Masisi added:  I am reliably informed  also, your excellency, that as much as Angola offered Botswana equity stake in it’s oil refinery, Namibia was too offered equity stake in the oil refinery. I can reliably inform you that us in Botswana have said yes, and we are going to take up and pay for that equity in that refinery.   I am assuming the same applies  to Namibia”. 

In addition, Masisi mentioned ongoing efforts to enhance infrastructure connecting the two countries, ensuring seamless movement of goods, services, and people. 

“ It is with pleasure that I announce the agreement to establish a one-stop-border-post in Mamuno, reflecting the advancement of negotiations on the draft agreement for the one-stop-border-post.This progress follows Namibia’s enactment of the of the one-stop-border-post Act,underscoring our commitment to streamlining border processes for increased efficiency,” stated Masisi, adding that this should be extend to other borders. 

“ If you are ready and willing, I am too and I bet you, we can do it in less than five months” 

Furthermore, Masisi stated that the importance of allocating more resources to events like the trade expos that brings together businesses. He added that this helps dispel misconceptions that Africans engage in insufficient trade among themselves. 

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