Regional Blocs of African Landlocked Countries

Southern Africa is home to several landlocked countries; including Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Lesotho, and Eswatini. Although some of these countries are geographically closer to the coast than others, the lack of direct maritime access continues to shape their trade logistics, industrial competitiveness, and economic integration.

To access international markets, they rely on major regional ports such as Durban and Richards Bay in South Africa, Beira and Maputo in Mozambique, and Walvis Bay in Namibia; making efficient transit arrangements and regional cooperation essential.

Landlockedness in Southern Africa is moderated in part by relatively well-developed regional transport corridors; yet challenges remain. High transport costs, infrastructure maintenance gaps, and border inefficiencies continue to affect trade flows; particularly for landlocked economies dependent on bulk commodity exports. Regional frameworks under the Southern African Development Community (SADC) play a critical role in promoting corridor development, harmonising customs procedures, and supporting cross-border infrastructure investment to reduce these constraints.

At the same time, Southern Africa's landlocked countries benefit from strong regional interdependence and comparatively advanced logistics networks. Strategic investments in rail revitalisation, dry ports, and value-added production; combined with deeper cooperation between coastal and landlocked states; can further reduce the structural disadvantages of landlockedness. Strengthening regional integration remains central to achieving inclusive growth, economic resilience, and sustainable development across Southern Africa.

Southern Africa Regional Map

Landlocked Members

Coastal Members

Key Transit Corridors

• North-South Corridor
• Beira Corridor
• Maputo Corridor
• Nacala Corridor
• Walvis Bay Corridor