Chronicle Editor
Sunday News Reporter
THE Immigration Department has expressed excitement over the growing number of travellers using the recently established Kasambabezi Border Post in Binga District, saying the figures are reflective of the positive impact the development has on trade and social interactions among the BaTonga communities residing on either side of the Zambezi River.
Inaugurated in 2020, the Kasambabezi Border Post connects Binga to Mamba Town in Zambia and stands as a key initiative of the Second Republic with plans already afoot to enhance and expand facilities at the border to further support the movement of people and goods.
Recent figures obtained by Sunday News following a recent visit by Special Advisor to the President on Monitoring Implementation of Government Programmes, Dr Jorum Gumbo revealed a significant increase in border crossings.
Although the border post still falls short of basic infrastructure, the figures so far recorded are testimony that the development was long overdue.
The number of travellers has surged from just 180 in 2020 to 11,139 in 2023, with a total of 12 218 travellers recorded as of 30 August, 2024—already surpassing the previous year’s totals with three months left in the year.
In an interview with Sunday News, Chief Director in the Immigration Department, Ms Respect Gono praised the Binga Border Post as a vital point of entry for travellers. She noted that the significant increase in crossings reflects both community appreciation and the post’s importance for the broader goals of national development and international engagement, particularly under Agenda 2030, which emphasises inclusivity.
“The completion of the border will enhance service delivery and facilitate migration and business,” stated Ms Gono.
She said adequate staff accommodation had been established while a borehole had already been drilled for water supply with plans for solar power installation underway to improve operational efficiency.
Ms Gono highlighted efforts to kick-start the construction of a main office block, which has faced delays due to budget constraints, but assured that collaboration with various stakeholders is being worked on to secure funding for the project soon.
She emphasised the border’s role in promoting economic integration and enhancing trade not only between Zimbabwe and Zambia but also with other SADC nations saying the government aims to position the Kasambabezi Border Post as a model for orderly migration and safe trade.
“In addition to providing support for border operations, the Immigration Department is enhancing local tourism potential, which is expected to drive job creation and economic growth in Binga. The development of permanent infrastructure, including proposed ferry services, is essential to unlocking the border’s full benefits,” she added.
It was during the visit that Dr Gumbo stressed the Government’s commitment to completing the projects in the district saying the border post was part of President Mnangagwa’s 14 high impact projects meant to bring Binga at par with other districts in terms of development.
He said the Kasambabezi Border Post exemplifies the vital link that improved infrastructure creates for fostering trade, strengthening diplomatic relations and enhancing connectivity, among communities across borders.
He expressed concern over delays in making sure that ablution facilities were made available saying toilets and washrooms were supposed to be part of the initial development phase.
“The situation where officials have to close office and go home to use toilets inconveniences travellers. It is also not very conducive for travellers themselves and with the increase in the number of people using the border, it becomes part of the serious health concern. Something should be done about it as a matter of urgency,” he said.
He also said the security of documents needed to be put into consideration given that the makeshift office had no perimeter fence or wall with immigration officers saying they have now resorted to removing the flags after thieves have been helping themselves to the flag ropes.
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