
Botswana has mobilised for other African states to capitalise on the Continental Free-Trade Area Agreement(AfCFTA) to grow sustainable economies.
According to the Vice President and Minister of Finance Ndaba Gaolathe, Botswana has positioned itself as a catalyst for trade and economic growth.
Giving remarks at the just ended Future of Finance in Africa conference that was held in Georgia University, USA Gaolathe said Botswana’s geographical position was key to its trade success.
Gaolathe, therefore, called on Africa to utilise the African Continental Free-Trade Area Agreement. He stated that it is not just a policy instrument but the boldest expression of African unity, and therefore, Botswana will be exalting its implementation.
“Botswana is not landlocked, but rather land linked, this is a catalyst for international trade. Efforts are underway to turn Botswana’s vision into reality,” said Gaolathe.
He added that it is not a dream to create a new Africa but instead to regain Africa’s superiority.
“Our borders are not barriers but are bridges. Our institutions are not reminiscent of the past but instruments of the future we are laying the ground work for sovereign wealth driven by our collective knowledge and collective wisdom,”he said.
In addition, Gaolathe noted that Botswana’s geographical position requires that it invest in block chain logistics and cross border financial technologies. “We need trade corridors that marry digital infrastructure with ecological sustainability,”he said.