BOTSWANA RAILWAYS ATTENDS THE SARA RAIL CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION 2025

The Southern African Railways Association (SARA) Rail Conference and Exhibition 2025 buzzed with energy at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg from 26–29 August. Under the theme “Seamless Connection – Advancing Integrated Intermodal Transport to Boost Mobility and Economic Opportunity Across Africa,” this event proved to be more than just an industry gathering; it was a space where the future of Africa’s rail and transport infrastructure was being shaped. For Botswana Railways (BR), participating in this conference was a strategic necessity. As a landlocked nation, Botswana relies heavily on efficient rail connections to access regional and international markets. Rail is not just a mode of transport— it's the backbone of trade corridors, a driver of economic opportunity, and a key enabler of integration within the wider  SADC community. Attending the event allowed BR to showcase ongoing projects and strengthen partnerships while aligning with continental initiatives. Botswana's presence was notably strengthened by the participation of the Assistant Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Hon. Keoagile Atamelang. He joined his regional counterparts on the Minister’s Panel Discussion on Policy & Governance in Rail Development, where he emphasized Botswana’s commitment to policy alignment  and cross-border collaboration as essential tools for unlocking Africa’s full transport potential. On Day 2, Hon. Atamelang returned to the spotlight for a lively panel on “Harnessing Strategic Leadership and Policy Synergy to Transform Africa’s Transport Infrastructure for Sustainable Growth. ” His message was clear and heartfelt: Strategic partnerships are the engine of regional progress. Railways must actively change the lives of people, not just move goods. Alignment of railways within SADC is key to unlocking seamless connections. Closing his remarks, the Assistant Minister noted: “These are not just dreams, these are not just conferences, these are actual plans and life-changing initiatives.” The BR team, represented by Mr. Semabale Tladi, Director of Business Development, and Mr. Dayton Disang, Head of Supply Chain, were joined by Mr. Kabelo Magola, Business Development Manager from SeaRail Botswana. Their collaboration highlighted BR's commitment to growing synergy within the national rail sector. Together, the team engaged with stakeholders, explored new partnership opportunities, and shared Botswana’s vision for modern, integrated, and sustainable rail solutions. Beyond the speeches and panel discussions, the SARA Rail Conference was about action, forging partnerships, sharing lessons, and building the frameworks needed to make bold ideas a reality. With strategic projects such as the Mosetse–Kazungula– Livingstone Link, the Mmamabula–Lephalale corridor, and the Trans Kalahari Railway, BR is positioning itself not only as a national player but as a regional connector driving growth and opportunity.