Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve, Victoria Falls Reporter
CROSS border traders in Matabeleland North Province have received US$20 000 from the Presidential Fund and 10 boreholes under the Borehole Drilling Scheme, as part of Government efforts to empower entrepreneurs and strengthen cross-border trade.
The support has been co-ordinated under the Cross Borders for Economic Development (ED) Association, which has also called for stronger ties with authorities, flexible duty payments and other incentives, to curb illegal smuggling.
The funding was officially launched during a well-attended event at Chinotimba Hall in Victoria Falls yesterday, where over 300 members from all seven districts of the province gathered.
Hwange West Zanu-PF shadow MP, Cde Pilani Moyo, alongside Zanu-PF District Co-ordinating Committee (DCC) chair, Cde Mathew Muleya, Cross Borders for ED vice chairperson Cde Tambudzai Sibanda, and Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) representatives, also attended.
In his remarks, Cde Sibanda said the association was engaging authorities to continue easing trade hurdles and expressed excitement over the US$20 000 boost, which will be distributed to selected 12 beneficiaries from across the districts.
Sibanda also pleaded with Zimra to consider reducing duty payments for cross-border traders.
“We submitted a request through the relevant ministry for our members to be charged five percent duty instead of higher rates. When duties are too high, people resort to corruption or illegal entry points.
“A fair duty structure will improve compliance and boost revenue,” she said.
Sibanda further called for streamlined border searches to reduce delays and appealed to local councillors to assist members in securing vending spaces.
She announced that 10 boreholes had been allocated to the province under the Presidential Drilling Scheme.
“This is just the beginning. More funds and projects are coming, so people must remain focused and committed.
These initiatives reflect the Government’s vision for economic development,” said Sibanda.
In his address, Cde Pilani Moyo commended Special Presidential Advisor Dr Paul Tungwarara for facilitating the disbursement of the funds, saying the initiatives will promote entrepreneurial growth and boost cross-border trade.
He urged beneficiaries to repay the funds, emphasising that the loans did not attract interest.
A Zimra representative, Mr Albert Burombo, emphasised the importance of declaring all goods and urged traders to seek guidance before importing restricted items.
“Always consult Zimra managers if you face challenges. Do not carry goods requiring permits if you do not have the permits and never use illegal crossing points as you risk having your goods confiscated,” he said.
DCC chair, Cde Muleya, urged attendees to actively participate in Zanu-PF structures, stating that more projects targeting party members will soon be rolled out. —@nyeve14
