Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe, Zimpapers Business Hub
ZIMBABWE and Botswana are today (Friday) set to further strengthen economic co-operation at the Zimbabwe-Botswana Business Forum in Bulawayo, as the two neighbours move to accelerate trade and investment linkages.
The engagement is one of the key economic platforms being held on the sidelines of the 66th Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), bringing together policymakers and business leaders from both countries.
Organised by the national trade development and promotion body, ZimTrade, the forum has attracted a diverse mix of players from across the two economies, reflecting growing interest in deepening bilateral commerce.
Zimbabwe and Botswana share strong historical and economic ties, with sustained high-level engagements underscoring a shared commitment to regional integration and economic growth within the Southern African Development Community (Sadc).
Earlier this week, the two countries convened a Bi-National Commission (BNC), which yielded more than 10 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) spanning key sectors.
The agreements focus on trade facilitation, industrial co-operation, value addition in agriculture and mining, as well as joint infrastructure development — areas seen as critical in unlocking shared growth opportunities.
Botswana has also mounted a strong presence at this year’s ZITF, with 18 companies from various sectors showcasing their products and services.
The robust participation show Gaborone’s drive to promote cross-border trade and investment, while creating a platform for Botswana-based firms to establish strategic partnerships with Zimbabwean counterparts.
President Duma Boko of Botswana on Thursday officially opened ZITF further signalling the importance both countries attach to strengthening economic diplomacy and private sector collaboration.
Bongani Ndlovu