adminLeonard Ncube recently in Binga
The Government should expedite the setting up of Binga Border Post as it is key to the growth and development of Binga Centre, a senior official has said.
Binga Rural District Council chief executive officer Mr Joshua Muzamba told Business Chronicle on the sidelines of a Binga SMEs Expo recently that the district cherishes the rate at which other towns in the country have developed through existence of border posts.
“The establishment of a border post is crucial to Binga. Looking at all border towns, they have developed faster as their economies are hinged on activities at the border posts,” said Mr Muzamba.
The proposed border post will link Zimbabwe and Zambia through Binga but developments towards its establishment are in limbo.
“Not much has been done with regards to operationalisation and as a stakeholder we will continue to lobby relevant ministries on the issue,” said Mr Muzamba.
He said he had hoped that Treasury would allocate funds in the 2017 national budget to facilitate establishment of the new border next year.
The establishment of the border post is expected to bring immense benefits for various business sectors that include tourism and agriculture. It is also expected to reduce the distance to Zambia from the district.
Zambians have already established a border post on their side at Namafulu Border Post and are now awaiting the Government approval operationalise the facility.
Binga Rural District Council has already allocated land for the establishment of the border infrastructure while accommodation for immigration officials is also available at Binga centre.
Besides bringing economic benefits, the border will go a long way in enhancing social and political relations between the two countries whose people either side of Zambezi River share similar political, religious and cultural histories.
Officially, people cross on two points, Binga Centre and Mlibizi without immigration processes while some illegally cross the river using boats that have been blamed for facilitating smuggling and poaching.
People from Binga are closer to Zambia but have to travel more than 300km to Victoria Falls to cross legally through the Victoria Falls Border Post.
Once established, the border post would constitute a harbor either side of the river and people will cross using boats after undergoing all immigration processes.
The port of entry would also enhance trade and tourism growth.
Binga is also a tourist district with hot springs, fishing activities and game reserves such as Chizarira National Park, Chete Safaris and Lake Kariba.
Having a border post can attract direct tourists into the area and boost development.
— @ncubeleon
Online Reporter