Story by Aifheli Mudau
The modernised Beitbridge Border Post has significantly improved the movement of travellers and vehicles, with waiting times reduced from days to a few hours, authorities have confirmed.
The border post, which is Zimbabwe’s busiest port of entry, is experiencing increased traffic as cross-border travel intensifies during the festive season, placing the upgraded infrastructure under a major test.
Officials say the modernisation project has enhanced efficiency, enabling faster clearance of both pedestrians and vehicles travelling between Zimbabwe and South Africa during the holiday period.
Travellers passing through the border have welcomed the improvements, citing shorter queues and better service delivery.
“As you can see, I am an elderly person, but the service I got here is just super because I never queued for a long time,” one traveller said.
Another cross-border traveller said assistance was swift and professional.
“We were having problems with our passport, but we were able to be assisted in a very professional manner, and everything is just so quick,” the traveller said.
Government officials say the upgraded facilities have transformed operations at the border.
“The project has brought a lot of flexibility to this Border because if we face any challenges with any terminal here, we can then shift the traffic to another terminal, and that on its own does assist us, and the travelling public at large,” Acting Manager, Zimbabwe Revenue Authority, Beitbridge, Mr Timothy Manatsire said.
Assistant Regional Immigration Officer Mr Lucky Matyora said congestion has been drastically reduced following the upgrade.
“Before this Border was modernised, there was a lot of congestion because we were using a single terminal for both human and traffic. But now we are clearing large volumes due to the efficiency of our systems, and again our terminals are now three,” he said.
Authorities have urged travellers to plan their journeys in advance and comply with border regulations to ensure smooth passage.
The modernisation of Beitbridge Border Post is regarded as a key government milestone, enabling the facility to process increased traffic volumes and support regional trade and mobility during peak travel periods.
