03 Feb 2013

The Zambian High Commissioner to Botswana, Mr Robert Mataka has applauded Botswana for the developments achieved since independence.

Mr Mataka revealed this in a meeting with Okavango senior government officials in Shakawe during a familiarisation tour of the sub district. He was touring the country to familiarise himself with the culture, history, economic challenges and the tremendous development the country has achieved so far.

He explained that the government of Botswana had done a lot to develop the country’s infrastructure and the nation’s economic status.

The high commissioner noted that Zambia and Botswana have enjoyed good bilateral relations and share a lot in common. In addition, he also mentioned that the two countries enjoyed good trade relations, noting that Zambia buys vaccines and beef from Botswana. 

He revealed that in the past Botswana’s students were sponsored by the Zambian government to study various disciplines such as engineering and medicine in Zambian universities.

Mr Makata highlighted that the two countries have a bilateral agreement to construct the Kazungula Bridge and revealed that plans for the construction were underway as engineers from Botswana and Zambia were already on site.

Welcoming the high commissioner, Shakawe’s district officer, Mr Bakani Mathumo briefed him about the Okavango Sub-district and on what the public officers were doing to ensure that service delivery.  

"Plans are underway to divide the district into a sub-district to improve service delivery in the area," he said.

 Kgosi Motemo Mbambo also shared with the high commissioner and his delegation the culture and history of Shakawe and other tribes found in the area.  ENDS