Story by Aifheli Mudau
GOVERNMENT agencies have intensified road safety awareness campaigns at the Beitbridge Border Post following a surge in travellers during the Easter holidays, as authorities move to ensure safe and smooth journeys.
The increased traffic comes as more visitors and returning residents pass through the border, with travellers commending improved efficiency and service delivery at the port of entry.
“I come from South Africa, and we have friends here in Zimbabwe, and we are going to visit different tourist sites as part of our holidays,” a visiting South African said.
“As you can see, the counters are almost empty. This means the service is good for us travellers, and even the fresh air here is something good. As compared to yesteryears,” another traveller said.
“Since crossing here in Zimbabwe, we have been rendered a good service, and we never queued … We are done for now, and we hope for the better on our journey to our holidays,” a cross-border traveller said.
According to the Department of Immigration Zimbabwe, traffic through the border post has risen significantly.
“The number of travellers using the Beitbridge Border Post has increased by more than 30 per cent owing to its efficiency, and we are still ready to handle any number of travellers,” Assistant Regional Immigration Officer Miss Canisia Magaya said.
Other stakeholders, including traffic safety authorities and police, have also been deployed to reinforce awareness campaigns and maintain order along major routes.
“Your safety is our concern, and please make sure your drivers are always doing the correct things on the road to avoid any carnage because your life matters,” Regional Traffic Safety Manager for Matabeleland South Province, Mr Blessing Sai said.
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Republic Police has assured travellers of heightened security during the holiday period.
“As police here in Beitbridge, we are out in full force everywhere to make sure there’s law and order, and we want all travellers to enjoy accident-free holidays,” Officer Commanding Beitbridge District, Chief Superintendent Mesuli Ncube said.
The developments come as the Second Republic continues to upgrade major road infrastructure, including the completed Beitbridge–Masvingo–Harare Highway, with plans underway to rehabilitate the Beitbridge–Bulawayo–Victoria Falls road to further improve travel and trade efficiency.
