Zambia and Botswana have signed a landmark agreement to expand and modernize trade infrastructure at the Kazungula Bridge, a critical transport gateway for Southern Africa. The move is expected to ease congestion, cut freight delays, and unlock new trade opportunities across the region.
Cutting Delays, Saving Millions
Transport and Logistics Minister Frank Tayali confirmed that the expansion will focus on:
- Upgrading and digitizing customs systems
- Expanding truck parking facilities
- Introducing a joint border management framework
These reforms could reduce freight crossing times from several days to just a few hours—saving businesses millions of dollars in transport costs each year.
Growing Trade Volumes Drive Expansion
Since opening in 2021, the Kazungula Bridge has quickly become a key artery for trade between Zambia, Botswana, and the wider SADC region, serving as a vital alternative to the congested Beitbridge crossing between South Africa and Zimbabwe.
However, freight volumes have already surpassed forecasts, stretching the bridge’s capacity and underscoring the urgency for expansion.
Minister Tayali noted that the project is not only about easing border delays but also about strengthening Zambia’s role as a regional transit hub, accelerating the movement of agricultural products, minerals, and manufactured goods to both African and international markets.
Broader Strategy and Investment Potential
The initiative forms part of Zambia’s wider transport strategy, which includes road rehabilitation, railway revival, and digitized freight clearance. Working jointly with Botswana, the two governments aim to implement systems that meet international logistics standards, offering transporters a seamless border-crossing experience.
Future plans include exploring joint investments in logistics parks, warehousing, and value-addition facilities near the border—developments expected to attract private sector participation, create jobs, and generate revenue.
Financing and Community Benefits
Feasibility studies will assess environmental and community impacts, ensuring that surrounding populations benefit directly from the project. Financing options under consideration include public-private partnerships and concessional loans, designed to move the expansion forward without overburdening national budgets.
Towards a Seamless Trade Corridor
The announcement has been welcomed by trucking associations and freight forwarders, long frustrated by delays at Kazungula. With reforms now agreed, the corridor is set to transform into a faster, more reliable, and more competitive trade route.
The timeline for the first phase of upgrades and construction will be finalized in the coming months, marking a new chapter in Zambia and Botswana’s partnership for regional integration and growth.
