Botswana, Zambia relations are “soaring” – Dr. Dow

 

Relations between Botswana and Zambia are “soaring” as evidenced by the regular interactions between the two heads of state.This demonstration of the highest political will to facilitate engagements initiated by officials provides ministers of fpreign affairs confidence that they are delivering on their mandate.

Further, Botswana and Zambia have also made significant inroads and strides in the areas of law enforcement, trade and investment, transport and communication and education.In her valedictory this week Tuesday in honour of the outgoing high commissioner of Zambia to Botswana, Brigadier General Patrick Tembo (Rtd) –Minister of international affairs and cooperation Dr. Unity Dow paid a glowing tribute to the Zambian envoy. The farewell reception was held at the Hilton Gardens Hotel in the Central Business Disctrict (CBD) of Gaborone. 

Tembo arrived in Botswana from another diplomatic posting in India in 2005 and during his tenure has worked to improve and strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two southern African states. Of significant note, Minister Dow singled out the ongoing construction of the Kazungula Bridge Project, which is co-financed by the two governments as “one of the monuments for successful joint infrastructural development projects between States in the SADC region”. She said they will not forget Tembo when they celebrate those who played a part in seeing “our dream” come to fruition.

Flanked by his wife at the front table, Brig. Gen. Tembo soaked in the showers of praise. He is also renowned for his charitable causes, which he has carried in conjuction with the Zambian Diaspora in Botswana to support NGOs such as Gamodubu Orphanage. Tembo then rose to address the distinguished group of invited guests mostly from the diplomatic corps including Botswana’s newly-appointed Ambassador to France, H.E Mustaq Moorad. He thanked his government for allowing him to serve and Botswana for generously hosting him.