President Emmerson Mnangagwa Proposes Passport-Free Travel with Botswana

HARARE — In a landmark initiative aimed at fostering deeper regional integration and improving the movement of people, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has proposed a gradual, phased removal of passport requirements for travel between Zimbabwe and Botswana. The proposal was unveiled during the Zimbabwe–Botswana Bi-National Commission (BNC) meeting held at State House on Wednesday. The proceedings were co-chaired by President Mnangagwa and the President of Botswana, Duma Gideon Boko.

Emphasizing the profound historical and cultural bonds between the two nations, President Mnangagwa described the relationship as extending well beyond the confines of formal diplomacy.

• He stated that Zimbabweans and Batswana are "one family," with connections rooted in shared heritage, solidarity, and common development goals.

• The President observed that natural movement, including that of communities and wildlife, already occurs across the borders, which reinforces the concept of unity between the two neighboring states.

To transition away from traditional passport requirements, President Mnangagwa outlined a structured, phased approach designed to simplify cross-border movement while ensuring security and efficiency. The strategy includes:

• Initial Phase: Replacing passports with national identity documents for citizens residing in border areas and for short-term travelers.

• Infrastructure Support: Prioritizing harmonized immigration procedures and the development of One-Stop Border Posts.

• Technological Integration: Utilizing digital clearance platforms to expedite movement.

• Economic Facilitation: Implementing efficient trader schemes to streamline the flow of goods and reduce the cost of doing business.

"In this regard, we must move decisively to ease the movement of people, goods and services," President Mnangagwa stated during his address to delegates.

Botswana’s President, Duma Gideon Boko, expressed his support for closer collaboration, characterizing the Bi-National Commission as an essential platform for reviewing progress and unlocking new opportunities for mutual growth. The high-level meeting is expected to conclude with the formal signing of 10 Memoranda of Agreement covering various economic sectors, further cementing the long-standing friendship that has existed between the two countries since the liberation struggle.

Zimbabwe Botswana passport-free travel proposal