Namibia to open more border crossings with Angola to boost trade

By Valeria Handobe

Namibia is set to strengthen its economic and social ties with Angola by opening five additional border crossings. This comes after the opening of a 24-hour border operation at the Oshikango-Santa Clara border post on Friday. This was announced by the Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, Dr. Albert Kawana while speaking at the opening of the border, which was attended by dignitaries from both countries.

The opening of the border aims to reduce congestion and improve service delivery for both locals and visitors, especially from Angola, which is a key market for Namibia’s tourism.

Kawana highlighted the importance of adopting measures that facilitate economic revival. He said these new crossings are expected to further promote trade and ease the movement of goods and people between the two countries.

“ Namibia and Angola are working on opening more border crossing areas at places such as Otjimuhaka in Namibia and Angola, Epupa/Montenengro in Kunene Region; Mushangara/Mucusso in Kavango East Region; Buabuata/Chetto in Zambezi Region, and Sisuwe/Bico de Angola in Zambezi Region. The date for opening of these borders will be agreed upon by the two countries once mechanisms are put in place,” stated Kawana.

Also sharing the same sentiments as Kawana, minister of Interior of Republic of Angola Dr. Eugénio Laborinho, said more people crossing the Santa Clara border post would bring in more taxes for both countries, which will lead to growth and progress.

“ The increase in migratory movement from this post will provide, not only an increase in tax revenues on both sides, but, above all, allow and stimulate the need of great opportunities for growth and progress, thus meeting the expectations of local populations and not only, to the extent that businessmen, tourists and ordinary citizens of all origins will be able to freely use this border as the official entry and exit point for their respective destinations,” said Laborinho.

Laborinho urged police officers to be vigilant and strict in their actions, as the border post could be used for smuggling, human trafficking, tax evasion, and crimes against wildlife