On the sidelines of the 39th Ordinary Session of the African Union Summit, President Duma Gideon Boko held face-to-face discussions with several African leaders on pressing continental issues. He met with President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia, President João Lourenço of Angola, President William Ruto of Kenya, and President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa. These bilateral meetings focused on regional trade agreements, economic partnerships, and strategies to strengthen collaboration across the continent. Botswana leveraged its participation in both the Southern African Development Community and the African Continental Free Trade Area to promote policies that encourage economic integration. The president emphasized that coordinated regional efforts are essential to fostering sustainable growth and improving living standards across member states.
During these engagements, President Boko highlighted the importance of harmonizing trade policies to enhance market access and investment opportunities. Discussions also included removing barriers to trade, facilitating cross-border commerce, and creating frameworks for shared infrastructure projects. Leaders exchanged perspectives on boosting intra-African trade and supporting industrialization initiatives that align with the African Union’s Agenda 2063. Botswana advocated for inclusive economic policies that prioritize youth employment, innovation, and regional connectivity. These meetings reinforced Botswana’s commitment to active participation in continental policymaking and to advancing cooperation that benefits both the country and the broader African community.
