Trans‑Kalahari Railway moves toward construction as Namibia and Botswana finalize roadmap

Namibia and Botswana have completed the feasibility study for the multi‑billion‑dollar Trans‑Kalahari Railway (TKR) and are now focusing on the implementation roadmap ahead of a December deadline. Ministers Veikko Nekundi of Namibia and Noah Salakae of Botswana said the next steps involve securing financing, finalising transparent procurement procedures and ensuring local contractors and suppliers benefit from the project.

The first phase is projected to create about 6,000 jobs for Batswana and 4,000 for Namibians, strengthening regional trade links and providing an alternative logistics corridor that complements the existing Walvis Bay route. Both governments have pledged to accelerate construction to boost the Southern African Development Community’s economic integration.