The Swartkopfontein Bridge in the North West Province was opened last week by the Minister of Transport Dipuo Peters and Botswana’s Minister of Transport and Communications, Onkokame Mokaila.

The bridge was constructed by the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) over the Notwane River, which links South Africa and Botswana.

“We build bridges in the spirit of the great Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela who spoke of a continent of Africa that is at peace with itself. A united Africa where its leaders combine in its efforts to solve the problems of this continent,” Peters said at the opening ceremony.

“At a time when some countries in the north are dreaming up schemes to build physical walls to separate neighbours and raising barbed wire fences to keep people out,” Peters said, alluding to United States President-elect Donald Trump’s desire to build a wall separating America from its southern neighbour, Mexico,  “We are standing in a small village in rural Southern Africa to celebrate the construction of a road and bridge that connects communities and opens up opportunities for people,” Peters added.

Cost and upgraded infrastructure

The new bridge has not only linked South Africa and its neighbour, but showcases an improved border post.

The road was also upgraded from gravel to an asphalt surface and includes the construction of the 80-meter long Notwane River Bridge. The bridge was also designed to withstand a one in fifty year flood.

The entire project cost a reported R R78.5 million and created 51 full-time jobs over the 23 month contract period. Labour for the construction of the bridge was sourced between SA and Botswana, however most of the construction material was sourced from Botswana.

 

Peters highlighted Botswana’s recent celebration of its 50 year independence under colonial rule. She said that South Africans were also honouring their heritage with a special emphasis this year on the rich legacy and qualities of the late Oliver Tambo, the longest serving President of the African National Congress.

“…in the same way in which this bridge across the Notwane River connects the people of Botswana and South Africa, the towering figure of O R Tambo serves as an historical link between our two countries stretching back almost six decades,” Peters said.

“At a time during the darkest days of apartheid repression the people of Botswana gave refuge to the leaders of our liberation movements,” she added and said that Botswana was Tambo’s first destination when he fled South Africa.

Botswana soon after became known as the “pipeline” for activists, Peters explained.

“The role of Botswana as a frontline state in the struggle against apartheid can never be underestimated,” Peters said, “Since then the relations between South Africa and Botswana has grown and prospered.”

Annual trade between both countries has grown steadily since the establishment of full diplomatic relations in 1994 and the streamlining of travel six regulations and border procedures have contributed to the free movement of people and goods across the border.

The Swartkopfontein entry point is located between the commercial border posts of Kopfontein and Skilpadshek and now serves as an alternative for commuters who make the journey between both countries.

“I have no doubt that it will relieve the pressure on traffic between Zeerust in South Africa and the towns of Gaborone, Lobatse and Ramotswa in Botswana,” Peters said. “This will lead to a safer travel experience for commuters within the region.”