Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya Beitbridge Bureau
SOUTH Africa’s Border Management Authority (BMA) has temporarily suspended operations at the Qacha’s Nek Port of Entry in Matatiele following heavy snowfall that has made travel unsafe, disrupting movement between South Africa and Lesotho.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, BMA Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato said the closure was agreed upon in consultation with Lesotho authorities as a precautionary measure to safeguard travellers, border officials and other users of the crossing.
“The heavy snowfall has resulted in unsafe weather conditions, thus necessitating temporary suspension of daily operations. The decision was taken as a precautionary measure in the interest of travellers and the entire border management community,” said Dr Masiapato.
He urged travellers and commercial transport operators to postpone non-essential travel until conditions improve.
“Those who must cross are urged to use Telle Bridge Port of Entry, which is located about 190 kilometres away,” he said.
Dr Masiapato said the BMA would continue monitoring weather conditions in collaboration with relevant authorities and would advise the public when it is safe to resume operations at the border post.
He also called on travellers to remain vigilant and comply with official travel advisories.
Qacha’s Nek is one of the principal border crossings connecting South Africa and Lesotho and is widely used by travellers and commercial traffic.
South Africa shares borders with six neighbouring countries- Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini and Lesotho- meaning disruptions at any port of entry can affect the movement of people and goods across the region.
