derick.khumalo
Sikhumbuzo Moyo in Binga
ALL is set for the official commissioning of the Kasambabezi Border Post in Binga by Vice President Kembo Mohadi, in a landmark development expected to unlock economic opportunities, strengthen bilateral relations between Zimbabwe and Zambia and bring an end to years of illegal and hazardous cross-border trade.
The new border post links Binga District in Matabeleland North Province with neighbouring Zambia and is expected to significantly improve the movement of people and goods while enhancing border security and revenue collection.
For decades, residents from both countries relied on unsafe crossings along the mighty Zambezi River to trade and visit relatives, exposing themselves to drowning and other dangers while fuelling smuggling and depriving both governments of much-needed revenue.
The commissioning of the border post ushers in a new era of regulated trade, safer travel and improved social and cultural interaction between communities that have maintained close historical and family ties across the border.
Construction of the modern facility commenced in October 2025 and was completed in May this year before it was handed over to the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works.
The project is one of the flagship developments under the Binga Development Initiative, a brainchild of President Mnangagwa aimed at accelerating socio-economic transformation in the district through targeted investments in infrastructure, health, education, water, aviation and economic development.
The initiative is anchored on the Second Republic’s philosophy of ensuring that “no one and no place is left behind”, with Binga increasingly emerging as one of the country’s fastest developing districts after years of being regarded as marginalised.
Government believes the border post will stimulate local economic activity by creating opportunities for formal cross-border commerce, tourism and investment while improving access to Government services for border communities.
The facility is already operational and has been equipped with modern information and communication technology infrastructure to ensure efficient processing of travellers and cargo.
The Department of Immigration has already occupied the premises following the issuance of an Occupation Certificate by the Binga Local Board.
The immigration section has been fitted with computer hardware, digital systems and internet connectivity, with a solar-powered back-up system guaranteeing uninterrupted operations even during power outages
The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has also completed the installation of its operational systems and internet network, supported by a standby generator to ensure seamless customs clearance and revenue collection.
The establishment of the border post is expected to formalise trade that has for years been conducted through illegal crossing points, improve compliance with immigration and customs laws and enhance security along the Zimbabwe-Zambia border.
Beyond trade and security, the facility is also expected to strengthen the long-standing cultural and family ties between communities living on either side of the Zambezi River by providing a safe and legal crossing point.
The commissioning by Vice President Mohadi is expected to mark another milestone in the Second Republic’s infrastructure development programme and its broader agenda of promoting inclusive development, regional integration and economic growth through strategic public investments.
