In a historic move towards regional integration, Botswana and Namibia have agreed to abolish passports for travel between the two countries. The Memorandum of Understanding, set to be signed on Friday, will allow citizens of both nations to use national identity cards as travel documents when crossing borders.

The announcement was made by Botswana’s Home Affairs permanent secretary, Rule Jimmy Opelo, who emphasized that the agreement is not only aimed at strengthening bilateral relations but also aligns with the objectives of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Treaty.

As member states of SADC, Botswana and Namibia’s agreement to use national identity cards for cross-border travel will help eliminate barriers to free movement of people, goods and services, thereby strengthening trade between the two countries. This is a significant step towards the progressive elimination of obstacles to free movement of people within the region.

The move by Botswana and Namibia is expected to set a precedent for other SADC countries to follow suit. It comes at a time when the region is increasingly prioritizing economic and regional integration as a means of promoting sustainable development and reducing poverty.

Opelo also highlighted that the use of national identity cards for cross-border travel will enhance momentum for regional integration, further promote safe and orderly migration, and foster social cohesion among the citizens of the two nations, who share profound historical, cultural, and economic bonds.

The Mamuno/Trans-Kalahari border post, where the agreement will be signed, is set to attain a full-fledged status of a One Stop Border Post later this year, operating on a 24-hour basis. This will help facilitate trade and commerce between the two countries.

The move has been received positively by citizens of Botswana and Namibia, who view it as a positive step towards regional integration and improving trade relations. It is expected to boost tourism and business activities between the two countries.