By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
A clarion call has been made for the Trans Kalahari Corridor Three Member States to strengthen its initiatives on supporting the economic growth of the three countries by supporting spatial development initiatives along the corridor.
The Executive Director for the Trans Kalahari Corridor Secretariat, Leslie Mlungisi Mpofu said a lot has been achieved since the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2003, however, more strategic issues still need to be attended to.
Mpofu said the 14th Joint Law Enforcement Operation is critical and a strategic proof that the MoU objectives have been given attention and it is now important to advance measures so that communities along the corridor can benefit.
“The corridor connects intra and inter regional economic areas in a defined geographical sphere. There are a number of perceived socio-economic development opportunities and benefits promoted by corridor development.
“These include, but not limited to diversification of the region’s industrial base, regional approach in mobilizing for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), corridors are direct ways to bring about regional integration,” he said.
Mpofu further said corridors promote regional integration and this is key in promoting growth prospects to developing countries. He added that corridors help to prioritize development of infrastructure to plug out the missing links in developing regions.
“Corridors provide an important connection between economic nodes or hubs therefore it is high time the Three Member States support regional economic growth, increase the rate of economic growth and create employment, both formal and informal.
“There is a need to identify policies and strategies, which will provide a sustainable basis for empowering local communities,” said Mpofu.
On behalf of the Republic of South Africa, Co-Chair Segodi Mogotsi said: “We remain committed as a country to the vision of our forebears to connect and integrate the region. Trans Kalahari Corridor remains one of our torchbearers in the continent with its success seen in the growth of traffic volumes, and infrastructure investment along the corridor in the Three Member States.”
In her speech representing Botswana, Masego Gertz said the 14th JLEO presents a platform for reaffirmation and recommitment to the enhancement of trade and also deepen socio economic integration. She said the Three Member States have committed and pledged to eradicate poverty and place their countries on a path of sustainable growth.
“We have not done enough in the past 20 years as our communities are still not benefiting economically, particularly SMMEs. We call on the member states to ensure that communities along the TKC are the first to enjoy the benefits through business opportunities and employment. People should be able to find a living through the corridor,” said Gertz.
From Namibia, Dr Cedric Limbo said the MoU is an important initiative as it is a step towards eliminating non-tariff barriers.
The Guardian 