Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau
Crossborders for Economic Development (Crossborders 4ED) and the Government have agreed in principle to review border user fees for cross-border transporters using the upgraded Beitbridge Border Post.
The move aims to reduce operational costs and optimise businesses linked to cross-border activities in Beitbridge district.
The local community’s economic activities are largely dependent on cross-border trade, with many struggling to pay border user fees for their vehicles. Currently, light cross-border vehicles pay US$27 to Zimborders on departure and US$80 on return (entry) when towing a trailer.
Crossborders for ED national chairman Mr David Masomere revealed this during Sunday’s launch of the presidential empowerment scheme for cross-border traders in Beitbridge. He stated that Transport and Infrastructure Development Minister Felix Mhona had agreed in principle to address their challenges and directed them to submit a proposal after engaging the Zimborders Consortium.
“The Minister has noted our concerns and advised us to engage the Zimborders Consortium, who completed the border upgrade in partnership with the Government,” said Mr Masomere.
“We have met the local leadership at Zimborders Consortium in Beitbridge where we proposed a pilot model. We suggested compiling a list of 20 vehicles from bona fide Beitbridge operators which would temporarily pay about US$27 for one-way entry or arrival for light trucks and omnibuses towing trailers.”
“We will now present this proposal to Minister Mhona. If successful, we’ll gradually increase the number of vehicles based on our members’ compliance, and we pledge to adhere to all regulations. We commend the Minister and Government for addressing our concerns.”
The border modernisation project falls under the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Development’s purview.
Bongani Ndlovu