By:
Kanto Kai Okanta
The
Communications Regulators’ Association of Southern Africa (CRASA) has
reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening regional cooperation in the
communications sector following a courtesy visit to Botswana’s Ministry of
International Relations.
The
engagement formed part of an induction programme following Malawi’s assumption
of the CRASA Chairpersonship. The delegation was led by the Director General of
the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA), Mr. Mayamiko Nkoloma,
and accompanied by Acting Executive Secretary Mr. Brian Mwansa.
The
CRASA team was received by Botswana’s Ambassador Gobe Pitso, who welcomed the
delegation and acknowledged the Association’s role in advancing regional
collaboration, harmonised regulatory frameworks, and improved connectivity
across Southern Africa.
Discussions
focused on key issues shaping the region’s communications landscape, including
access to international connectivity infrastructure such as submarine cable
systems. Participants noted that enhanced infrastructure is critical for
improving digital inclusion, affordability, and broader economic development.
The
talks also underscored the importance of communications infrastructure in
supporting regional integration and strengthening the digital economy across
Southern Africa.
Mr.
Nkoloma expressed appreciation to the Government of Botswana for hosting the
CRASA Secretariat and supporting its operations over the years. He highlighted
Botswana’s continued contribution to creating an enabling environment for
regional coordination and institutional effectiveness.
He
further noted that the presence of the Secretariat in Botswana has strengthened
CRASA’s ability to coordinate initiatives and support member states in
addressing emerging regulatory and digital transformation challenges.
The
meeting concluded with a shared commitment to deepen collaboration and advance
initiatives aimed at promoting connectivity, regional integration, and
sustainable digital development across the Southern African region.
