WINDHOEK, Aug. 2 — Namibia and Botswana have extended the usage of national identity (ID) cards as documents for cross-border travel between the two countries to three more borders following the initial launch in February.
Etienne Maritz, the executive director at the Namibia Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, said Tuesday the three border posts added are Ngoma, Impalila Island, and Mohembo Border posts with immediate effect.
The memorandum of agreement and the launch signed between Namibia and Botswana on Feb. 24, 2023, initially only included the Trans-Kalahari/Mamuno Border Post.
The extension of the agreement is seen as a major boost to cross-border trade and tourism between the two countries. It will also make it easier for people who live near the borders to travel between the two countries for work, school, and other purposes.
The Namibian ID card is a secure document that contains the holder’s photograph, fingerprints, and other personal information. It is accepted as a valid travel document by Botswana.
The extension of the agreement is a positive step for Namibia and Botswana. It will help to boost economic activity and improve relations between the two countries. (Xinhua)
