Zambia and Botswana Lead Africa's Digital Border Revolution with Kazungula Agreement

The Governments of Zambia and Botswana have reached an agreement to allow citizens of both countries to use digital identity cards as valid travel documents when crossing the Kazungula Bridge Border. The Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security Principal Public Relations Officer, Mwala Kalaluka, announced this in a statement on Tuesday, stating that Zambia was expected to commence the use of digital national identity cards in 2027.

Kalaluka revealed that more than one million Zambians have already been registered on the Integrated National Registration Information System, representing a major milestone in the government’s drive to establish a single, unified national identity framework. He followed with once introduced, the single ID will replace multiple forms of identification, including the National Registration Card, passports and other government-issued documents.

This agreement to connect Zambia and Botswana represents a significant step forward in regional integration and cross-border mobility. By removing the requirement for traditional passports, both governments are making it easier and more affordable for citizens to move between the two countries for trade, employment and family purposes.

Beyond convenience, the adoption of digital ID cards as travel documents positions both nations at the forefront of Africa's digital transformation agenda. The initiative also reinforces the spirit of cooperation envisaged under the Southern African Development Community's protocols on the free movement of persons.