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Tariro Stacey Gatsi
FARMERS are hopeful the move by the Zimbabwe and Botswana governments to scrap passport requirements for citizens of both nations will unlock trade opportunities and markets in a development that will boost their incomes significantly.
The two neighbouring countries reached a ground breaking border deal last week that has ignited hope and excitement among farmers with Government authorities said to be working diligently to ensure a seamless transition that will spawn maximum benefits citizens, farmers included.
Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development permanent secretary Professor Obert Jiri yesterday said his Ministry would seek further guidance on how the new set-up was going to work especially where agricultural trade is concerned.
“We will seek guidance on how the new arrangement can benefit our farmers who might want to increase trade with our neighbour,” Prof Jiri said.
Zimbabwe Commercial Farmers Union (ZCFU) president Dr Shadreck Makombe described the move as beneficial to farmers.
“This is a move in the right direction. It presents market opportunities to farmers in both countries as those products in short supply in one country can be supplied by the other country as long as they fulfil the regulatory requirements of both countries. The hurdles have been obviated meaning trade is going to be better and effective,” said Dr Makombe.
Meanwhile, both countries have instituted tight border control measures to arrest the spread of foot and mouth disease (FMD) caused by uncontrolled livestock movements. FMD has a devastating effect on the beef industry for both Botswana and Zimbabwe given that the outbreak of the disease makes if difficult if not impossible for the two countries’ beef to penetrate lucrative international markets.
More than 80 percent of Batswana rely on the beef industry for their livelihood through products such as milk, meat, hides, draft power, income and socio-psychological support.
Zimbabwe on the other end can export various agricultural products that have a niche market in the desert country. The Government also wants to ensure that the interests of farmers are safeguarded and that they are well-prepared for the transformative changes ahead.
Statistics from Trade Map show that Zimbabwe and Botswana trade in cereals, flour, starch or milk, pastry cooks’ products as well as products of the milling industry such as malt, starches, inulin and wheat gluten.
Apart from boosting agricultural trade, the new border arrangement will create an environment conducive to economic growth and regional integration. The agreement is anticipated to boost trade volumes, attract investment and foster closer ties between Zimbabwe and Botswana, thereby benefiting both nations and their citizens.
The result of extensive negotiations, the bilateral agreement signifies a significant turning point in the relations between Zimbabwe and Botswana. It focuses on streamlining customs procedures, bolstering security measures and improving infrastructure and holds immense promise in facilitating the movement of goods and people across the border.
Online Reporter