Five Southern African nations have agreed to expand the scope of a regional visa to boost tourism and streamline travel across borders. Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, all part of the Kavango-Zambezi (KAZA) Transfrontier Conservation Area, announced their commitment to enhancing the “univisa” system. This initiative, currently allowing easy entry between Zambia and Zimbabwe, and facilitating short visits to Botswana via Kazungula, aims to simplify travel across these countries.
During a recent KAZA summit held in Livingstone, Zambia, leaders from the member nations reached a consensus to broaden the visa’s coverage to include more countries within the conservation area and the larger Southern African economic community.
Botswana’s Vice President, Slumber Tsogwane, confirmed his country’s full support and adoption of the univisa, signalling a unified effort to promote regional tourism.
In addition to the visa expansion, KAZA member states have agreed to advocate for changes to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) regarding elephant and ivory trading. Established to regulate and control wildlife trade, CITES has banned the commercial trade of African elephant ivory since 1989 due to severe population declines.
The KAZA nations argue that lifting the ban would enable them to sell accumulated ivory worth approximately $1 billion, with the proceeds directed towards conservation efforts. This proposal underscores their commitment to balancing wildlife protection with sustainable economic development.
As a seasoned travel consultant with over a decade of experience, I've dedicated my career to exploring the diverse landscapes and rich cultures of Africa. My passion for travel goes far beyond booking flights and hotels; it's about connecting with the heart and soul of each destination. I have personally navigated the bustling markets of Marrakech, trekked the rugged terrains of the Drakensberg, and witnessed the breathtaking wildlife of the Serengeti.My extensive firsthand knowledge of the African continent is complemented by a vast and dynamic network of fellow travel enthusiasts, local guides, and industry experts. This is a powerful community that provides a continuous flow of real-time, personal experiences and invaluable insights. This means the information and recommendations I provide are not just based on my own adventures, but are enriched by a collective wealth of current and authentic travel tales.In this space, I share my deep expertise and insider tips to help you craft your own unforgettable journeys. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, my goal is to provide you with the most reliable, comprehensive, and up-to-date information so you can travel with confidence and enthusiasm.
Southern Africa Introduces Unified Visa for Enhanced Tourism
Five Southern African nations have agreed to expand the scope of a regional visa to boost tourism and streamline travel across borders. Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, all part of the Kavango-Zambezi (KAZA) Transfrontier Conservation Area, announced their commitment to enhancing the “univisa” system. This initiative, currently allowing easy entry between Zambia and Zimbabwe, and facilitating short visits to Botswana via Kazungula, aims to simplify travel across these countries.
During a recent KAZA summit held in Livingstone, Zambia, leaders from the member nations reached a consensus to broaden the visa’s coverage to include more countries within the conservation area and the larger Southern African economic community.
Botswana’s Vice President, Slumber Tsogwane, confirmed his country’s full support and adoption of the univisa, signalling a unified effort to promote regional tourism.
In addition to the visa expansion, KAZA member states have agreed to advocate for changes to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) regarding elephant and ivory trading. Established to regulate and control wildlife trade, CITES has banned the commercial trade of African elephant ivory since 1989 due to severe population declines.
The KAZA nations argue that lifting the ban would enable them to sell accumulated ivory worth approximately $1 billion, with the proceeds directed towards conservation efforts. This proposal underscores their commitment to balancing wildlife protection with sustainable economic development.
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Updated on July 10, 2025 by TravelNinja
Enthusiastic Travel Consultant
As a seasoned travel consultant with over a decade of experience, I've dedicated my career to exploring the diverse landscapes and rich cultures of Africa. My passion for travel goes far beyond booking flights and hotels; it's about connecting with the heart and soul of each destination. I have personally navigated the bustling markets of Marrakech, trekked the rugged terrains of the Drakensberg, and witnessed the breathtaking wildlife of the Serengeti.My extensive firsthand knowledge of the African continent is complemented by a vast and dynamic network of fellow travel enthusiasts, local guides, and industry experts. This is a powerful community that provides a continuous flow of real-time, personal experiences and invaluable insights. This means the information and recommendations I provide are not just based on my own adventures, but are enriched by a collective wealth of current and authentic travel tales.In this space, I share my deep expertise and insider tips to help you craft your own unforgettable journeys. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, my goal is to provide you with the most reliable, comprehensive, and up-to-date information so you can travel with confidence and enthusiasm.Comments
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