Sundaymail Editor
Online Reporter
The South African company tasked with the major makeover of Beitbridge Border Post – Raubex – says works on the project, which is expected to be completed next year, “got off to a swift start and are progressing well”.
The scope of the project includes a perimeter fence, rehabilitation of roads to and from the border, gate control infrastructure, parking areas, a commercial centre, staff accommodation, upgrading communications and security, lighting systems, and new buildings and terminals.
Focus is currently “on the efficient and timely execution of works”.
At an EPC (engineering, procurement and construction) contract value of US$172 million or R2,5 billion, the project makes up about 57 percent of Raubex’s R4,4 billion order book.
“Works on this contract got off to a swift start and are progressing well. The group, through its Zimbabwean subsidiary, was also awarded the contract to maintain the border post facilities over the 17,5 -year concession period. The maintenance contract will commence on completion of the port works,” said the company on Monday in a commentary accompanying its financial results for the year ending February 28, 2021.
Adding: “In the rest of Africa, construction work will be focused on the efficient execution of works relating to the upgrading and expansion of Beitbridge Border Post in Zimbabwe. Raubex is pleased to have secured this contract and proud to be associated with the project, which is a key national project and integral to Zimbabwe’s economic and social development goals.”
Modernisation of Africa’s busiest land border, which is tied to the ongoing rehabilitation of the Beitbridge-Harare-Chirundu highway, is forecast to facilitate trade on the major arterial route on the North-South Corridor.
Tinaye Agere
Online Reporter