Ramaphosa Pushes for Deeper Cooperation at SA-Botswana Bi-National Commission

The President acknowledged the trade imbalance and noted that South Africa is interested in increasing imports from Botswana and encouraging broader product diversification between the two economies.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for deeper economic cooperation and stronger regional integration between South Africa and Botswana, describing the South Africa-Botswana Bi-National Commission (BNC) as a key platform for elevating relations between the two neighbouring countries to a new strategic level.

Speaking during the opening session of the sixth South Africa-Botswana Bi-National Commission in Gaborone on Thursday, President Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of expanding bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, mining, infrastructure and energy.

The high-level commission forms part of President Ramaphosa's State Visit to Botswana, which began on Wednesday and focuses on strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between the two Southern African nations.

Addressing delegates and officials from both countries, Ramaphosa stated that the commission provides an important mechanism for aligning mutual interests, reinforcing existing partnerships and identifying new opportunities for collaboration.

He stressed that while economic ties between South Africa and Botswana remain strong, there is still considerable room to expand cooperation and achieve more balanced trade relations.

According to figures presented during the meeting, bilateral trade between the two countries reached approximately R82 billion in 2025. South African exports to Botswana accounted for around R73.5 billion, while imports from Botswana stood at approximately R7.7 billion.

The President acknowledged the trade imbalance and noted that South Africa is interested in increasing imports from Botswana and encouraging broader product diversification between the two economies.

Ramaphosa also highlighted the growing interest among South African businesses in investing further in Botswana, particularly in sectors capable of generating employment, strengthening skills development and contributing to Botswana's long-term economic growth.

Agriculture emerged as one of the major areas identified for expanded collaboration. The President noted that Botswana imports a significant portion of its agricultural products from South Africa, with agricultural imports estimated at approximately R14 billion last year.

He emphasized South Africa's willingness to partner with Botswana in developing its domestic agricultural sector and improving food security through knowledge-sharing, investment and technical cooperation.

The South African President further praised Botswana's economic diversification agenda under its 12th National Development Plan, which focuses on building a more export-oriented and private sector-driven economy.

Ramaphosa expressed particular interest in Botswana's plans to develop Special Economic Zones aimed at attracting foreign direct investment, strengthening industrial competitiveness and creating jobs.

He assured Botswana that South African companies stand ready to participate as reliable investment and development partners as these economic zones expand.

The President also underlined the strategic importance of mineral resources possessed by both countries, particularly in the context of growing global demand for minerals used in electric vehicle batteries, renewable energy technologies and advanced computer manufacturing.

He argued that African countries must move beyond merely exporting raw minerals and instead focus on local beneficiation, value addition and industrialization to create employment opportunities and retain greater economic value within the region.

"As owners of these minerals, we should beneficiate these products ourselves," Ramaphosa stated, emphasizing the importance of regional industrial development and economic self-reliance.

Energy cooperation and regional infrastructure development also featured prominently during the discussions.

Ramaphosa highlighted the importance of continued collaboration in the energy sector to meet rising electricity demands, support industrial growth and strengthen economic development across the region.

He also stressed the role of renewable energy investments in diversifying the region's energy mix and supporting long-term sustainability goals.

One of the key infrastructure projects discussed was the proposed Mmamabula–Lephalale Rail Link Project, which the President described as a strategic initiative capable of unlocking significant economic benefits for both countries.

The rail project is expected to improve regional logistics connectivity, facilitate mineral exports, strengthen trade routes and support industrial growth in Southern Africa.

Ramaphosa also reflected on the historical relationship between South Africa and Botswana, acknowledging Botswana's important role during South Africa's liberation struggle against apartheid.

He noted that Botswana provided critical support, solidarity and refuge to South African freedom fighters during the anti-apartheid movement, creating deep and enduring bonds between the two nations.

The President said the Bi-National Commission now serves as a platform to further deepen those historic ties through stronger economic, political and developmental cooperation.

Analysts believe the State Visit and the outcomes of the BNC discussions reflect growing efforts within Southern Africa to strengthen regional integration, improve intra-African trade and build more resilient economies amid shifting global economic conditions.

The discussions are also aligned with broader continental initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which seeks to boost economic cooperation and industrial development across Africa.