FINANCE Minister Mthuli Ncube says the government will be trying the Integrated Border Efficiency Management Systems (IBEMS) at Beitbridge Border post as part of its decision to modernise and upgrade all borders posts in the country.
The decision was made in July 2015 and will allow for One Stop Border Post programs which if fully implemented could help turn the country’s economic fortunes.
In his 2019 budget proposal, Minister Ncube said work is already underway and will start at Beitbridge before cascading to other border posts.
“Upgrading should allow for One Stop Border Post expansion programs, separation of traffic at the border, entry and exit points should incorporate the latest designs of controlled movement, the use of latest technology in border management (IBEMS).
“The structures shall conform to national and international standards in relation to emergency exits, lighting, power supply, water and sanitation, environmental protection, etc.
“The model Border Post will be implemented at Beitbridge first, before cascading to the other entry points such as Plumtree, Chirundu, Forbes, Nyamapanda, Victoria Falls and Kazungula Border Posts,” he said.
Upgrading of the country’s borders is important especially for tourism as the last Zimbabwe Exit Survey indicated that majority of tourists in the country are coming are buy road and mostly via Beitbridge Border Post.
During peak periods such as the impending festive season and Easter Holidays, most Zimbabwean borders will be too congested causing unnecessary delays to travellers.
The Minister revealed that the contract to upgrade and modernise the border was awarded to Zimborders Consortium and they have already hit the ground running.
“Already, work on the upgrading and modernisation of Beitbridge is underway, following the award of the contract to Zimborders Consortium.
“The concessionaire is already working on achieving financial close for the project that should pave way for the full implementation of the project,” he said.
