Africa must be democratic

By Rebaone Tswiio
NDOLA, Zambia - Democracy and political stability in Africa would create a conducive environment for trade and investment, President Lt Gen. Ian Khama Seretse Khama has said.Officially opening the 46th Zambia International Trade Fair on Saturday, President Khama said time was "long overdue" for Africa to rid herself of political instability and poor governance.
"In this day we can no longer patronise one another and watch and do nothing while our people suffer as a result of poor political leadership and bad management of national resources," emphasised President Khama.
He noted that in a democratic dispensation elected leaders owe a duty to their citizens to uphold principles of good governance, democracy and the rule of law, adding that "anything short of this is unacceptable."
President Khama also noted that Botswana and Zambia have had the difficult task of managing their economies during the global economic crunch while they both need to diversify their economies from dependence on the mineral sector.
"We all recognise that our countries can no longer afford to put our eggs in one basket," said President Khama. He added that sustained growth for both economies will require contributions from small, medium and large enterprises.
The fair was held under the theme "Economic recovery through innovation and competitiveness."
President Khama said the theme underscores the need to increasingly engage in systemic initiatives to improve the quality of the goods and services to make them competitive in the international market.

Guest of honour

President Khama noted that despite the financial crisis, Botswana and Zambia have significantly increased trade between them over the last five years.
President Khama emphasised the need for partnerships in mega projects within the region. "We should do everything in our power to ensure that construction of the Kazungula Bridge is complete as soon as possible."
The anticipated launch of a direct air link between Gaborone and Lusaka, he said, should also facilitate the swift movement of people, goods and services in a cost effective manner. BOPA