This morning, President Advocate Duma Boko departed Gaborone for a two-day State Visit to Zambia at the invitation of Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema. Upon arrival in Lusaka, President Boko was warmly received by his counterpart and honored with a 21-gun salute, signifying the importance of the visit and the strong diplomatic ties between the two nations.
The highlight of President Boko’s visit is the launch of the Zambia-Botswana Bi-National Commission (BNC), which he and President Hichilema are set to jointly preside over today at State House in Lusaka. The BNC marks a significant milestone in Botswana-Zambia relations, replacing the longstanding Joint Permanent Commission of Cooperation (JPCC) as the highest formal structure for bilateral dialogue and coordination.
The establishment of the BNC represents a strategic upgrade in how the two countries engage on matters of mutual interest, offering a comprehensive platform to deepen cooperation in areas such as trade, infrastructure, energy, health, agriculture, and security. It reflects a shared vision by both governments to transition from traditional diplomacy toward results-driven partnerships that directly benefit their citizens.
The two leaders are expected to review the progress of existing agreements, identify new areas of collaboration, and set clear targets for implementation. The BNC’s structured approach is designed to enhance accountability, accelerate project delivery, and ensure that joint initiatives contribute meaningfully to regional integration and economic growth.
President Boko’s visit underscores Botswana’s commitment to strengthening regional ties and promoting shared prosperity through strategic partnerships. The transition from the JPCC to the BNC signals a new era of cooperation rooted in innovation, mutual respect, and a common goal of sustainable development for both countries.
