Mphoengs Border Post undergoes major facelift to improve efficiency

Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau

THE Department of Immigration has completed a major refurbishment of Mphoengs Border Post, with works that began in November 2025 transforming the port of entry into a modern and more efficient facility.

Chief Immigration Officer Ms Respect Gono said the refurbishment programme addressed key infrastructure and technology gaps at the border post.

She said officials were now putting the final touches to the upgrades ahead of the official commissioning of the facility on Sunday by the Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Kazembe Kazembe, and the Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe.

Ms Gono said the department was also rolling out the new Online Border Management System (OBMS), which is expected to improve the movement of travellers through the country’s ports of entry.

She said the system provides a pre-clearance platform that allows travellers to complete their immigration details online before arriving at the border.

“The system enhances efficiency, improves data collection and enables seamless integration with other stakeholders,” said Ms Gono.

“The upgrades are expected to reduce processing times, improve traveller experience and strengthen border security at Mphoengs, supporting the broader Government thrust to modernise Zimbabwe’s ports of entry.”

As part of the refurbishment programme, the department also removed and replaced the roof, which had been close to collapse.

Ms Gono said the building was repainted to improve the working environment, while new signage and billboards were installed to improve navigation for travellers.

The immigration hall has also been fitted with new partitioned cubicles to streamline traveller processing, while the entire facility has been solarised to guarantee reliable power supply.

“This reflects the President’s mantra of leaving no one behind by ensuring that even the smallest borders are well equipped through digitalisation and solarisation,” said Ms Gono.