Botswana and Zimbabwe Ink Ten MoUs to Bolster Cooperation

Botswana’s President Duma Boko traveled to Zimbabwe for a three-day state visit starting from the 21st April, 2026. During the visit, the two leaders co-chaired the 5th Bi-National Commission (BNC) to bolster cooperation.

President Boko led a strong delegation comprising of top executives from 18 Botswanian companies. Ten agreements were signed covering trade, infrastructure, energy, and defense.

Another key issue discussed was the passport-free travel between the two countries using just the national identity cards. Zimbabwean President stated that he would be in favor of a phased implementation. On the other hand, Botswanian President Boko expressed the willingness to work with Zimbabwe to legalize undocumented Zimbabweans in Botswana.

“We are one family. While borders separate jurisdictions, our communities move freely. We are one people.”

Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa

“We appreciate that Zimbabwe is rising. The Zimbabwean economy is now buoyant and this phenomenal growth inspires confidence not just in your country, but in the region and ultimately across Africa. The world is watching as your leadership steers the country towards not just sustainable, but inclusive economic growth.”

Botswana President Duma Boko

On 23 April 2026, President Boko was the Guest of Honor at the official opening of the 66th Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) in Bulawayo, under the theme: “Connected Economies, Competitive Industries.” President Boko also visited the Geo Pomona Waste Management Facility in Harare, which is a successful waste-to-energy project in the region.

Both Botswana and Zimbabwe are mineral-rich countries. Botswana is in the process of diversifying its economy from #diamonds, while Zimbabwe is striving to seize the opportunities resulting from the boom in #CriticalMinerals, notably #lithium.

The state visit between the two cordial neighbors contributed to boost intra-Africa trade and to address illegal migration. Traditionally, Botswana exports mainly salt to Zimbabwe, while Zimbabwe exports agricultural and food products to Botswana. New product categories include construction materials and pharmaceuticals.