A Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between South Africa and Botswana will see the two countries improve cooperation to stimulate economic growth and advance regional integration.
Dipuo Peters, Transport Minister says, “Key to our agreement is that it will enhance regional integration as well as economic development. “
“We are very excited about this because it shows that our engagement over the years has started to bear fruits.”
Part of the MoA includes the Upgrade of the Road and Bridges Infrastructure Development Initiatives between South Africa and Botswana, which entails cooperation in all designs, construction, financing, rehabilitation and maintenance.
In March 2007, the Regional Action Agenda Report was developed with the intention of identifying gaps, prioritising projects and thereby promoting regional integration and development.
The document is a practical action agenda, which identifies projects that should be undertaken to ensure regional economic development and integration.
This will improve the competiveness of the region through reduced transport costs and minimised delays in the movement of goods and commuters.
Rammotswa Bridge
Rammotswa Bridge is one of the projects that are being implemented as part of the programme to upgrade bridges and river crossings connecting the two countries.
The project scope entails reconstruction of the bridge and preliminary designs have been completed.
States Peters, “South Africa has already demonstrated its commitment by setting aside, R20 million for completion of the project.”
“The South African National Roads Agency Limited (Sanral) has a dedicated project manager based in the Northern Region managing the process on the ground.”
Nonofo Molefhi Botswana Transport and Communications Minister says, “As South Africa is an economic hub in the region, it remains an attractive trade partner for most of our products and services.”
“The road and bridges project will go a long way in terms of strengthening regional integration as envisioned in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) protocols.”