China Funds Nata-Maun Road Feasibility Study

Ame Motimane | Monday May 27, 2019 12:31

This follows after the Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Kenneth Matambo and the ambassador of China to Botswana Zhao Yanbo signed letters of exchange for the Nata-Maun road feasibility study on Friday.

“This is not only a sign that we have a true friend in China, but it also goes a long way in demonstrating that China still very much appreciates our need for development assistance in spite of our high middle income status,” said Matambo.

He, however, stated that the Nata-Maun road is an economic project that will facilitate greater regional integration to access markets in the north thereby contributing to economic growth in the SADC region.

“Once completed, the project will unlock economic opportunities and enhance transport logistics for products destined for the northern markets, agriculture produce of the Chobe region to the markets in the south of the country,” he said.

Matambo mentioned that this road would also support government’s efforts in facilitating citizen participation in the tourism industry as it connects to the tourist attraction areas in the North West.

On his part, Yanbo said the signing of the exchange of letters on the feasibility study marks the start of the rehabilitation of the important road.

“The signing of the agreement is an outcome of the discussion between the two heads at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation summit, it demonstrates China’s continued support for Botswana to promote economic development, increase jobs and also improve Botswana’s most needy infrastructure,” Yanbo said.This, Yanbo said, is a vivid reflection of genuine friendship between the two countries.