Kazungula Bridge Authority Commissioned to Drive Regional Integration
Zambia and Botswana Commission Kazungula Bridge Authority to Boost Trade on the North–South Corridor
Zambia and Botswana have officially commissioned the Kazungula Bridge Authority, reinforcing the strategic importance of the Kazungula Bridge as a vital trade and transport link across the Zambezi River.
The milestone was marked during a ceremony in Kasane, underscoring the bridge’s growing role in advancing regional integration and economic development.
Speaking at the launch, Hakainde Hichilema described the bridge as more than a national infrastructure project, calling it “a shared asset belonging not only to Zambia and Botswana, but to the region and the world.” He emphasized that African countries must take ownership of their development agenda and invest in transformative infrastructure that enhances intra-African trade.
President Hichilema expressed appreciation to the Government and people of Botswana for hosting the event, as well as to the communities of Kazungula and Kasane for safeguarding the crossing over the years.
He noted that the bridge has played a critical role in restoring economic connectivity and fostering cross-border cooperation.
Commissioned in May 2021, the Kazungula Bridge has become a key gateway along Southern Africa’s North–South Corridor.
Traffic volumes reflect its growing impact: average daily truck crossings increased from 214 in 2021 to 491 by December 2025.
This surge highlights the bridge’s contribution to trade facilitation, revenue generation, and reduced transit times across the region.
The President of Botswana, Duma Gideon Boko, described the bridge as “an iconic symbol of regional connection, cooperation, and trade.” He called on African leaders to harness the continent’s resources and human capital to build resilient economies where goods and services generate sustainable value.
President Boko also noted significant reductions in truck queues at the border and outlined plans to transition to 24-hour operations, with the long-term objective of establishing a fully non-stop border post to further streamline trade flows.
Zambia’s Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development, Charles Lubasi Milupi, explained that the Kazungula Bridge Authority was created under a bilateral agreement between Zambia and Botswana to oversee the bridge’s management and operations.
According to Minister Milupi, the Authority will enhance operational efficiency, strengthen governance frameworks, and support long-term infrastructure sustainability.
Through digital systems and coordinated border management, it aims to evolve from a one-stop border post model to a fully integrated, technology-driven non-stop facility.
He described the Kazungula Bridge as a benchmark infrastructure project for Africa, setting new standards in cross-border collaboration and engineering excellence.
With the establishment of the Authority, both nations reaffirm their commitment to ensuring that the bridge continues to serve as a catalyst for regional growth and continental integration for generations to come.
