Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya
Beitbridge Bureau
THE Zimbabwe Revenue Authority says it is ready to handle the expected increase in traffic at the country’s borders during the festive season with more staff and 24-hour service, but urged travellers to fully comply with customs regulations to avoid delays.
Border posts record higher numbers of people and traffic during the festive season, hence the need for more manpower and extended working hours.
In a statement yesterday, Zimra Commissioner-General Ms Regina Chinamasa outlined a series of measures designed to ensure efficient, predictable, and secure movement during this busy period.
The authority is committed to maintaining transparent border operations.
“To manage congestion, we have deployed additional staff across major border posts,” said Ms Chinamasa.
“Beitbridge, Forbes, and Chirundu will operate 24 hours a day, while Plumtree is expected to move to 24-hour operations before Christmas, pending agreement with Botswana. Other borders may extend operating hours based on traffic conditions.”
Ms Chinamasa advised travellers using foreign-registered vehicles to use the electronic Temporary Import Permit pre-clearance platform, which allows for the submission of vehicle details and supporting documents online prior to arrival.
The initiative aims to reduce time spent at the border and enable travellers to plan their journeys with confidence.
Returning residents are reminded of the US$200 travellers’ rebate, applicable once per month on non-commercial goods intended for personal use.
“Digital support has been enhanced through monitored WhatsApp assistance and free Wi-Fi at major ports, while Customer Experience Champions will be available to guide travellers,” said Ms Chinamasa.
Highlighting the authority’s commitment to integrity, she emphasised the reinforcement of anti-corruption measures through CCTV, drones, scanners, and increased supervision.
She advised travellers to engage only with uniformed officers and to report any misconduct through official channels.
“The authority encourages travellers to make complete and accurate declarations at the border to ensure a smooth and seamless journey. Correct declaration also helps officers process and clear travellers faster,” she said.
Ms Chinamasa added that as part of ongoing enforcement efforts, post-clearance verification checkpoints will be established along major routes across the country to detect undeclared goods.
Any undeclared items found at these checkpoints will be seized and automatically forfeited to the State, without the option for a fine.
Ms Chinamasa reiterated that integrity at the borders is a shared responsibility, noting that when travellers make truthful declarations, they contribute to creating a fair, safe, and predictable environment for everyone.
“Each act of honesty strengthens national trust and reflects the pride we carry as Zimbabweans,” she said.
“Travellers are urged to declare goods, keep receipts, and cooperate fully with officers. We express appreciation for the public’s cooperation and reaffirm our commitment to providing professional and transparent service throughout the festive season.”
