Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Africa Links 24
Published on 2024-02-28 12:27:51
The Republic of Botswana and Zambia have recently made a joint commitment to share the maintenance costs of the Kazungula Bridge through the establishment of the Kazungula Bridge Authority (KBA). This decision was made during the 56th Botswana-Zambia Bilateral Meeting in Gaborone. Minister Molale of Botswana announced that toll gate fees would cover the maintenance expenses, with plans to set up toll gates in the future.
The 56th Bilateral Meeting also saw the approval of guidelines for tourism and events at the Kazungula Bridge. Both countries are undertaking waterfront projects at the bridge to enhance tourism in the area. Minister of Transport and Public Works, Eric Molale, confirmed the initiation of these projects, which aim to attract both local and international tourists.
Minister Molale emphasized the importance of a coordinated approach in managing tourism facilities at the bridge. The Kazungula Bridge Authority is expected to ensure the efficient operation of the bridge and border controls on both sides. The signing of the KBA is scheduled for March 2024, with preparations currently underway in both countries.
The Kazungula Bridge, which was constructed at a cost of US$259.3 million and inaugurated in May 2021, has become a key infrastructure for facilitating the movement of people and goods between Botswana and Zambia. It has also emerged as a popular destination for tourism, sightseeing, and sporting events like marathons, contributing to its growing significance in the region.
The development of waterfront projects at the Kazungula Bridge is part of the broader efforts to promote tourism and enhance the visitor experience. Both countries are at different stages of implementing these projects, with a focus on creating attractive waterfront facilities to accommodate tourists and showcase the natural beauty of the area.
By jointly developing their waterfronts, Botswana and Zambia aim to create a seamless and enjoyable experience for tourists visiting the Kazungula Bridge. The approved guidelines for tourism will ensure that visitors, whether local or international, are properly handled and provided with the necessary amenities and services.
Overall, the collaborative efforts between Botswana and Zambia to share the maintenance costs of the Kazungula Bridge and develop waterfront projects demonstrate a commitment to enhancing tourism and promoting economic growth in the region. With the establishment of the Kazungula Bridge Authority and ongoing preparations for its signing, both countries are poised to capitalize on the tourism potential of this important infrastructure.
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