Zambia and Botswana Open Ministerial Session Ahead of Inaugural Bi-National Commission
Zambia and Botswana have officially commenced the Ministerial Session in preparation for the inaugural Bi-National Commission (BNC), marking a milestone in bilateral cooperation between the two neighbouring nations. The high-level meeting is taking place at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka.
The session is being co-chaired by Zambia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, S.C., M.P, and Botswana’s Minister of International Relations, Hon. Dr. Phenyo Butale. The event brings together key cabinet members and senior officials from both countries.
In his opening remarks, Hon. Haimbe described the Bi-National Commission as a strategic evolution from previous bilateral frameworks, aiming to intensify collaboration in vital sectors such as trade facilitation, infrastructure, mineral value addition, agriculture, tourism, health, education, and security.
“The BNC offers a more strategic platform to deliver impactful cooperation,” Hon. Haimbe said, adding that the Heads of State from both countries expect the deliberations to align ongoing initiatives and resolve outstanding issues to benefit the citizens of Zambia and Botswana.
Hon. Butale reflected on the journey that began in 2021 to elevate the Joint Permanent Commission of Cooperation to a Bi-National Commission. The Agreement was signed in 2024, setting the stage for this inaugural session. He noted that this new framework aims to deepen engagement across sectors of mutual interest.
Butale also pointed to shared infrastructure achievements such as the Kazungula Bridge and the upcoming Mosetse-Kazungula-Livingstone Railway Project, which are designed to enhance regional integration and economic development.
He emphasized the importance of formulating new strategies to promote private sector growth and economic diversification, which he described as essential for job creation and long-term development.
The Ministerial Session follows the Senior Officials Meeting held from July 29–30, 2025. The Inaugural Bi-National Commission is set to convene on August 1, 2025, in Lusaka.
