By Kaleb Nghishidivali
Otjiwarongo, August 02 – The 12th Joint Law Enforcement Operation (JLEO) has commenced in Jwaneng, Botswana, where esteemed officials and stakeholders gathered to discuss the future of the Trans Kalahari Corridor, envisioning it as a smart, efficient, and secure trade route.
During the information session, Orapeleng Mosigi, Chairperson of the Trans Kalahari Corridor Management Committee, presented an ambitious plan to transform the corridor into a smart one. The envisioned smart corridor will leverage the power of information and communication technology to manage and monitor traffic movement.
“The aim is to provide real-time information along the corridor, enabling paperless trade, enhancing the safety and security of the corridor, and making it an attractive option for trade,” said Mosigi.
The envisaged smart corridor would pioneer a new era of digital trade in the region, aiming to improve efficiency by providing up-to-the-minute data about traffic flow, enabling quicker response times to incidents and disruptions, and facilitating smoother, more reliable trade operations.
Representing Namibia, Co-chair Dr Cedric Limbo, Eugene Tendekule, reiterated the need for Member States to align with the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) procedures. The call to action is a bid to promote harmonized trade in the region.
“The transformation of the Trans Kalahari Corridor into a smart corridor is a significant step towards achieving our goal of harmonized trade in the region,” Tendekule stated. “We urge all Member States to align their processes with SACU and SADC to ensure seamless and efficient trade.”
The 12th JLEO’s launch marks a significant milestone in the region’s efforts to modernize and streamline trade routes. The proposed transformation of the Trans Kalahari Corridor into a smart corridor is an innovative and forward-thinking initiative that aligns with the broader objectives of SACU and SADC.
The project promises to revolutionize trade in the region by improving efficiency, safety, and security. It also stands as a testament to the region’s commitment to harnessing the power of digital technology to enhance and modernize traditional trade practices.
The 12th JLEO’s launch and the ambitious plans for the Trans Kalahari Corridor underscore the region’s commitment to improving trade, fostering regional cooperation, and driving economic development across Southern Africa. – Namibia Daily News
