President Mnangagwa Proposes Passport-Free Travel with Botswana in Phased Plan
In a move aimed at improving the movement of people and boosting regional integration, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has proposed a gradual removal of passport requirements between Zimbabwe and Botswana.
The proposal was made during the Zimbabwe–Botswana Bi-National Commission (BNC) meeting held at State House on Wednesday, where President Mnangagwa co-chaired proceedings with Botswana’s President, Duma Gideon Boko.
Also Read: Zimbabwe Announces E-Passport Service For Citizens In Botswana
‘One People’ — Shared History Emphasised
Addressing delegates, President Mnangagwa highlighted the deep historical and cultural ties binding the two nations, describing their relationship as one that goes beyond formal diplomacy.
“The people of Zimbabwe and Botswana are one family,” he said, adding that connections between the two countries are rooted in shared heritage, solidarity and common development goals.
He noted that despite formal borders, communities — and even wildlife — continue to move freely, reinforcing the idea of unity between the neighbouring states.
Phased Plan for ID-Based Travel
President Mnangagwa outlined a structured approach that would begin by allowing citizens in border areas and short-term travellers to use national identity documents instead of passports.
The initiative would be supported by modernised systems, including harmonised immigration procedures, One-Stop Border Posts and digital clearance platforms. Authorities also plan to prioritise efficient trader schemes to ease the movement of goods and reduce business costs.
The proposal is expected to significantly improve cross-border trade and simplify travel for ordinary citizens once implemented.
“In this regard, we must move decisively to ease the movement of people, goods and services. I propose a phased framework for the use of national identity documents in place of passports, beginning with border communities and short-term travel. Harmonised immigration systems, One-Stop Border Posts, digital clearance platforms and efficient trader schemes remain priority areas towards accelerating the flow of goods and reducing the cost of doing business.”
Botswana Calls for Stronger Cooperation
President Boko echoed the call for closer collaboration, stressing the importance of accelerating joint efforts across multiple sectors.
He described the Bi-National Commission as a critical platform for reviewing progress and identifying new opportunities for cooperation, while ensuring the partnership remains relevant and beneficial to both nations.
Boko reaffirmed that the long-standing friendship between the two countries continues to provide a solid foundation for future growth and shared prosperity.
Agreements to Cement Bilateral Relations
The high-level meeting is set to conclude with the signing of 10 Memoranda of Agreement covering various economic sectors. These agreements are expected to further strengthen ties and unlock new avenues for development.
Zimbabwe and Botswana have maintained strong relations dating back to the liberation struggle, and the latest proposals signal a renewed commitment to deepening cooperation and regional integration.
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