BOTSWANA PRESIDENT DUMA BOKO CALLS FOR OPEN BORDERS ACROSS SADC, SAYING FREER MOVEMENT OF GOODS AND MORE FLEXIBLE TRADE ROUTES ARE KEY TO BOOSTING REGIONAL TRADE, ATTRACTING INVESTMENT AND GROWING SOUTHERN AFRICA’S ECONOMY
Botswana President Duma Boko has called for more open borders and trade corridors across the Southern African Development Community (SADC), arguing that regional economies can grow faster if goods move more freely between member states.
Speaking on regional trade and economic cooperation, Boko said Southern Africa needs greater flexibility in trade routes and stronger cross-border commerce to unlock investment, create jobs and improve economic opportunities for businesses across the region.
The Botswana leader believes reducing trade barriers and improving the movement of goods between countries could strengthen economic integration and help SADC nations benefit more from regional markets. His comments come as African countries continue efforts to expand intra-African trade and improve economic cooperation through regional agreements.
Supporters say more open trade routes could reduce transport costs, ease border delays and make it easier for businesses to access customers across Southern Africa. Critics, however, argue that governments must balance trade liberalisation with border security and the protection of local industries.
Do you agree with President Duma Boko’s call for more open borders and trade corridors across SADC, or should countries maintain stricter controls?