Beitbridge Border Authorities Enhance Operations Amid Festive Season Surge
As the festive season intensifies, authorities at the Beitbridge Border Post between Zimbabwe and South Africa have bolstered their workforce to manage the significant increase in human and vehicular traffic. This strategic move aims to ensure efficient processing and minimize delays for travelers during this peak period.
Increased Staffing to Manage Traffic Surge
Since December 10, additional personnel have been deployed at both bus and private vehicle terminals. Their primary role is to assist travelers, particularly with electronic temporary import permits (eTIPs), streamlining the entry process into Zimbabwe.
Significant Influx of Travelers
Data from the Department of Immigration indicates a substantial rise in border crossings. Between December 16 and December 21, 85,846 individuals entered Zimbabwe, while 34,094 departed. Notably, returning residents comprised 87% of the arrivals, totaling 75,096 individuals.
Surge in Vehicular Traffic
The period also saw a notable increase in vehicular movement from South Africa into Zimbabwe, with records showing:
- 3,087 light vehicles
- 2,403 buses
- 3,525 trucks
Daily Processing Averages
Assistant Regional Immigration Officer-in-Charge, Mrs. Canisia Magaya, reported that the border is currently handling daily averages of 13,976 entries and 6,362 departures. Despite the surge, there is a slight decline compared to the same period last year. Between December 11 and December 22, 153,744 entries were processed, marking a 1% decrease from 160,632 in 2023. Departures also fell from 81,235 last year to 69,992 this year.
Traveler Advisory
Authorities advise travelers to avoid engaging third-party services for immigration clearance to mitigate fraud risks. Additionally, those traveling with children should ensure they carry valid passports and necessary supporting documents.
Call for Streamlined Payment Processes
Permanent Secretary for Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Dr. Takaruza Munyanyiwa, who is overseeing operations on-site, expressed satisfaction with the current improvements. However, he emphasized the need to harmonize payment processes to reduce the time travelers spend in queues paying levies and other fees.
Commitment to Efficient Border Operations
Authorities remain dedicated to ensuring smooth operations at Beitbridge as the holiday season continues, striving to facilitate seamless travel for all individuals crossing the border.
