Trade Boost on the Horizon as Zambia, Namibia Convene for OSBP Steering Committee Meeting
Efforts to strengthen regional trade ties between Zambia and Namibia have gained momentum as senior officials from both countries convened in Livingstone for the Joint Steering Committee (JSC) meeting on the operationalization of the Katima Mulilo One-Stop Border Post (OSBP).
Hosted by Zambia’s Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, the high-level meeting aims to accelerate implementation of the OSBP—a strategic trade facilitation initiative designed to enhance cross-border efficiency and economic integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Permanent Secretary for Trade and Commerce, Mrs. Lillian S. Bwalya, reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to regional economic growth, describing the OSBP as critical for improving trade logistics, reducing transit times, and boosting competitiveness across the Southern African region.
“The Katima Mulilo OSBP will not only facilitate smoother cross-border movements but also deepen regional value chains and enhance our economies’ efficiency,” said Mrs. Bwalya.
Echoing her remarks, Namibia Revenue Agency Commissioner, Mr. Sam Shivute, praised the collaborative spirit between the two nations.
“This initiative is a game-changer for our countries. It will stimulate trade, create jobs, and support sustainable economic development,” he said.
The meeting builds on progress made during the inaugural Joint Technical Committee (JTC) meeting held in Sesheke earlier this year and is expected to produce a strategic roadmap for the next phase of the OSBP rollout.
Stakeholders from both sides expressed optimism that with coordinated efforts, the project can be fast-tracked to meet the growing demands of intra-African trade.
