His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa welcomed His Excellency President Duma Boko, President of the Republic of Botswana, to the historic Genadendal Official Residence in Cape Town during a distinguished welcome dinner held in honour of the Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU).
The gathering brought together regional leaders in a spirit of partnership and shared purpose, reaffirming the enduring commitment of SACU Member States to deepen economic integration, strengthen regional cooperation and promote sustainable development across Southern Africa.
As the world’s oldest functioning customs union, SACU continues to serve as a cornerstone of regional economic collaboration. Since its establishment in 1910, the organisation has played an instrumental role in facilitating cross-border trade, harmonising customs policies and fostering economic growth among its member states.
The welcome dinner provided an important platform for leaders to engage on matters of mutual interest, including expanding intra-regional trade, accelerating industrialisation, enhancing investment opportunities and addressing emerging global economic challenges. The presence of President Duma Boko underscored Botswana’s steadfast commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with South Africa while advancing the collective aspirations of the SACU region.
President Ramaphosa’s hosting of the event reflects South Africa’s continued dedication to fostering regional solidarity and creating an enabling environment for inclusive economic development. Through sustained dialogue and collaborative leadership, SACU remains well-positioned to unlock new opportunities for economic resilience, competitiveness and shared prosperity.
In an increasingly interconnected global economy, the role of SACU has become more significant than ever. By promoting seamless trade, supporting industrial development and advancing policy coordination among member states, the customs union continues to demonstrate the value of regional cooperation as a catalyst for growth and stability.
The evening at Genadendal Official Residence not only celebrated the longstanding partnership among SACU nations but also reaffirmed a collective vision for a prosperous, integrated and economically resilient Southern African region. As leaders continue to strengthen strategic partnerships and pursue shared development objectives, SACU remains a powerful symbol of unity, cooperation and progress for the benefit of its people.