19 Feb 2013

The Zambian High Commissioner to Botswana, Mr Robert Mataka has hailed government’s effort to improve the lives of those who are living in poverty.

Mr Mataka, who visited Moremi on Monday, said the poverty eradication programme was a unique and commendable effort that could go a long way in bridging the gap between the rich and poor.

“It’s a unique policy in our region, the gap between the rich and the poor is quite wide…and I am sure that they are dotted all around Botswana” he said, as he expressed appreciation of the initiative. He said his country would emulate Botswana in this regard.

The high commissioner also said he was impressed by the culture of Batswana, district administration and tourism attractions as well as the country's infrastructure such as road networks, colleges and hospitals.

He noted that at the time Botswana gained independence, it was one of the poorest countries in the world.  On export and trade between two countries, Mr Mataka said his country and Botswana had good relations. He said during his assignment, improvement of trade between the two countries would remain a priority.

He added that construction of the Kazungula Bridge, which is expected to improve trade between the two countries, would soon start.   A project office was set up in Kasane and the project was expected to be complete in three years’ time, he said. ENDS