Trans-Kalahari Railway: US Visa Bond & Namibia’s Infrastructure Concerns

Trans-Kalahari Railway Faces Hurdles Amidst US Visa Restrictions and Governance Concerns

The ambitious Trans-Kalahari Railway project, envisioned to connect Botswana and Namibia to regional and global markets, is facing renewed headwinds. While the railway has been discussed for over a decade, progress remains stalled, and recent developments – including the addition of both countries to a list of nations requiring a $15,000 bond for US visas – are raising concerns among potential investors and highlighting existing governance challenges.

In early March 2026, the White House added Botswana and Namibia to a list of countries whose citizens must post a refundable bond to obtain a US visa, a move that groups them with nations facing significant issues with corruption and political instability. This decision, stemming from concerns over “golden passport” schemes and lax citizenship regimes, comes at a particularly inopportune moment for the railway project, which still requires billions in funding. The timing suggests a broader scrutiny of financial transparency and governance within the region.

For Botswana, the railway represents a crucial step in diversifying its economy beyond diamonds, coal, and beef. The country’s reliance on the South African port of Durban is hampered by severe congestion, with waiting times for loading and unloading stretching up to two weeks. A functioning rail link would provide a more efficient logistics chain, boosting exports and economic growth. Namibia, similarly, sees the railway as a potential gateway for a significant portion of South Africa’s $400 billion economy, offering a viable alternative to congested South African ports.

Concerns Over Transparency and Institutional Capacity

However, the potential benefits of the Trans-Kalahari Railway are increasingly overshadowed by concerns surrounding governance and institutional capacity, particularly within Namibia. A recent article in the South African daily, Daily Maverick, focused on Namport, the state-owned ports authority, and the role of its long-serving CEO, Andrew Kanime. The article highlighted concerns about transparency, political patronage, and undue business influence within the organization.

Despite substantial infrastructure investments – around $1.2 billion – and a $200 million loan from the African Development Bank, questions remain about Namport’s ability to generate sufficient activity to service its debt. The 2024 Container Port Performance Index ranked Walvis Bay 376th out of 405 global ports, citing significant inefficiencies and long turnaround times. This poor performance raises serious doubts about Namibia’s ability to deliver the elite logistics service required for a successful export corridor.

Further fueling these concerns are allegations of questionable practices surrounding a $180 million oil and gas contract near Lüderitz. Reports in The Namibian suggest that a tender for the project was unexpectedly withdrawn after a company linked to the ruling Swapo party expressed interest, raising suspicions of political interference. These incidents, coupled with Kanime’s continued leadership despite the controversies, paint a picture of an institution struggling with transparency and accountability.

The Intersection of US Visa Policy and Governance

The US visa bond requirement appears to be directly linked to these governance concerns. Former President Trump’s decree explicitly targeted “golden passport” schemes and countries perceived as vulnerable to exploitation by corrupt actors. While Namibia and Botswana have historically enjoyed relatively strong passport rankings due to their stability, the inclusion on the visa bond list signals a growing skepticism about their commitment to financial transparency and good governance.

It’s important to note that Kanime has not been charged with any wrongdoing. However, in the world of infrastructure finance, perception is paramount. Due diligence processes often flag potential risks based on suspicion alone, and a ports authority led by a long-serving insider presiding over contested tenders and poor performance is likely to raise red flags for investors. Kanime’s contract renewal in November, despite the ongoing concerns, has been interpreted by some as a sign of a system protecting its own.

The success of the Trans-Kalahari Railway hinges on the creation of robust, interconnected institutions across borders. Weaknesses within any one of these institutions, particularly in Namibia, could undermine the entire project. A fundamental shift in institutional culture is needed to attract the investment and ensure the transparency required for the railway to become a reality. Should Namibia address these concerns, it could not only unlock the potential of the Trans-Kalahari Railway but also potentially lead to a reassessment of its visa requirements by the United States.