The Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security,  Dr. Albert Kawana is confident the 24-hour operations of the Trans-Kalahari and Mamuno Border Post will help revive the economies of Namibia and Botswana.

Dr. Kawana made this remark at the launch of the 24-hour operation of the Trans Kalahari / Mamuno border post at Buitepost in the Omaheke.

The Trans-Kalahari Corridor links the port of Walvis Bay to Botswana's capital, Gaborone, and Dr. Kawana emphasized that this 24-hour operation will enhance the socio-economic development and encourage trade between the two countries.

"This is the era of economic emancipation of our people after all this was one of the most important objectives of our struggle for national liberation. I have no doubt that with the wise leadership that we have, this objective can be achieved, the economic ties between our two countries will continue to present new opportunities the anticipated economic growth will require the expansion of services therefore the will be a need to come up with innovative ideas of doing things in order to solve challenges that may arise."

Dr. Kawana urged officials charged with security to ensure that goods are not stolen from trucks at night while waiting to be cleared.

Botswana's Minister of Finance, Peggy Serame echoed the same sentiment, saying the 24-hour operations of the border will give its competitive advantage and a Corridor of choice in the Southern African Development Community region.

"The revenue is critical and much needed for the development of our two nations, especially during this era as we recover from the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, let me hasten to say that this occasion would not have come at an opportune time when both the government of Botswana and Namibia have rectified the African continental free trade agreements and stand ready to reap the intended benefits under this agreement."

Also speaking at the occasion was Omaheke Governor Pijoo Nganate.

"It is thus evident that as we continue to bolster trade and cooperation between our two states we have somewhat embraced the practices of yesteryear which encourage and allow access."