Forbes Border Post upgrade project approved

Judith Phiri – Business Reporter

CABINET has green-lighted a public-private partnership (PPP) between the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development and the Forbes Border Consortium paving the way for the much-anticipated modernisation of Forbes Border Post.

The project was presented to Cabinet by Professor Mthuli Ncube, the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, who also chairs the Public-Private Partnerships Committee.

During a post-Cabinet media briefing, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere emphasized the Government’s commitment to modernising the country’s ports of entry.
“As part of the Second Republic’s drive towards the modernization of the country’s ports of entry, the Forbes Border Consortium has been contracted by the Government of Zimbabwe for the upgrading and modernization of Forbes Border Post in Manicaland Province,” he stated.

Dr Muswere further explained that the approval marks the second phase of the project, which follows a comprehensive feasibility study carried out by the consortium and subsequent validation by the government.
He noted, “The Forbes Border Consortium will implement the modernization project under a design, build, finance, operate and maintain framework.”

The financing strategy aims to foster a private sector-driven economy, alleviate fiscal pressures, and capitalize on royalty payments throughout the project’s lifespan.

“The scope of the project includes, among others, the renovation of border post buildings and infrastructure, construction of new facilities such as weighbridges, roads, and parking lots, enhancement and integration of Information Communication Technology systems, significant improvements to traffic processing systems and construction of staff houses,” Dr Muswere said.

He highlighted that this infrastructural investment is expected to spur growth through improved traffic control along the Beira corridor, the establishment of a preferred transit link to the SADC region and increased Treasury collections through enhanced monitoring and collection capabilities.

Additionally, the project aims to bolster security and efficiency for transporters and strengthen Zimbabwe’s connectivity within the region, positioning the country to leverage benefits from the African Continental Free Trade Area through expedited movement of goods.