Enhancing Trade Efficiency: SADC and EU Launch Namibia�s Coordinated Border Management Strategy

The Southern African Development Community (SADC), with support from the European Union (EU) under the Trade Facilitation Programme (TFP), has launched the Namibia Coordinated Border Management (CBM) Strategy and the Time Release Study (TRS) Report for the Trans Kalahari Border Post. The launch, held in Windhoek, Namibia, on 12-13 March 2025, marks a significant step towards improving trade efficiency and regional integration.

The CBM Strategy and TRS aim to address inefficiencies at Namibia�s borders, including bottlenecks, cumbersome procedures, and infrastructure challenges. By streamlining processes, the initiative seeks to reduce goods clearance times and lower business costs, fostering greater trade within the SADC region and beyond.

The CBM Strategy outlines the establishment of robust implementation structures to oversee the CBM concept, enhance cooperation among border agencies, facilitate bilateral relations with neighboring states, and monitor border-post performance. It also promotes the simplification and harmonization of trade documentation and procedures, improving the predictability and security of control processes while enhancing coordination among border agencies.

Findings from the TRS Report highlight the current clearance times at the Trans Kalahari Border Post: an average of **5 hours and 31 minutes for imports** and **4 hours and 34 minutes for exports**. These insights will help drive improvements in trade facilitation and infrastructure upgrades.

Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) Commissioner **Mr. Sam Shivute** emphasized the country�s commitment to regional trade facilitation and compliance with WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) obligations. He called for stronger information-sharing mechanisms and continued infrastructure enhancements at border crossings.

**Mr. Alcides Monteiro**, Senior Programme Officer for Customs at the SADC Secretariat, reaffirmed the importance of effective trade facilitation measures to consolidate the SADC Free Trade Area. He noted that implementing TRS recommendations will boost intra-regional trade, attract foreign investment, and support economic growth.

SADC�s Coordinated Border Management Guidelines, approved in 2012, serve as a foundation for implementing the CBM concept across Member States. The initiative aligns with broader continental goals, including the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the WTO Agreement on Trade Facilitation.

By fostering efficient and coordinated border management, this initiative will enhance trade competitiveness, reduce transaction costs, and strengthen regional integration, further positioning Namibia and the SADC region as key players in global trade.

Strengthening the SADC-EU Partnership for Sustainable Development

The European Union (EU) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) reaffirm their strong partnership during the SADC-EU Ministerial Dialogue, held within the framework of the Global Gateway. This collaboration is facilitated through the Neighbourhood, Development, and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI-Global Europe).

Since 2023, both parties have signed eight cooperation agreements totaling EUR 163.9 million under the EU�s 2021-2027 Multiannual Indicative Programme for Sub-Saharan Africa. These agreements support key areas such as peace and security, trade and transport facilitation, natural resource management, agri-food systems, institutional capacity building, and digital transformation across Southern Africa.

The EU and SADC continue to strengthen their strategic alliance, reinforcing SADC�s role in driving sustainable and inclusive economic growth. Through this partnership, both parties remain committed to advancing regional integration and fostering socioeconomic development in the region.

SADC Secretariat Celebrates Mauritius Independence and Republic Day

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Secretariat proudly commemorated the 56th Independence Day and 32nd Republic Day of Mauritius. This important event marks the liberation of Mauritius from British colonial rule on March 12, 1968, and its transition to a republic in 1992.

The celebration at the SADC Secretariat showcased the rich history and cultural heritage of Mauritius, highlighting the significant contributions of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, the nation�s first Prime Minister, in guiding the country towards independence.

Mauritius holds a unique position within the SADC family, having become the 12th Member State and the first island nation to join in 1995. This milestone was marked by the signing of accession instruments by then Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, reflecting Mauritius� dedication to regional cooperation and integration.

Globally recognized for its stunning landscapes, including pristine beaches, lagoons, reefs, waterfalls, and rainforests, Mauritius is a premier holiday destination that enchants visitors with its natural beauty and vibrant culture.

In extending heartfelt wishes to the Republic of Mauritius, the SADC Secretariat expressed hopes for lasting peace and prosperity for all Mauritian citizens and future generations.

As Mauritius celebrates its 56th Independence Day and 32nd Republic Day, the SADC Secretariat joins in honoring the achievements and resilience of the Mauritian people.