Zim, SA roll out joint Easter clearance plan

Zimbabwe and South Africa are ramping up preparations for the Easter travel rush at Beitbridge Border Post, with authorities from both countries implementing a harmonised clearance system to ease congestion and improve efficiency.

The integrated approach includes separating traffic into freight, buses, light vehicles and pedestrians, supported by automation at Zimbabwe Revenue Authority and immigration service points on the Zimbabwean side.

Authorities have also activated the Border Efficiency Management Systems, which have previously proven effective during peak travel periods. These measures include deploying additional personnel, increasing coordination among border agencies, collapsing shifts and suspending leave to ensure full staffing capacity.

Regional Immigration officer for the Southern Region, Joshua Chibundu, said officials are fully prepared to handle increased traffic volumes.

“As a Department, we are ready to deal with a surge in traffic during the Easter holidays this year and we are going to employ the same measures we use during peak periods which have proved to be effective,” he said.

He added that authorities are working closely with security agencies to curb illegal crossings and address concerns such as child smuggling, which tends to rise during holiday periods.

Travellers accompanying minors have been urged to comply with legal requirements, including carrying valid passports, birth certificates and affidavits of consent from parents or guardians.

On the South African side, the Border Management Authority has introduced measures such as extended operating hours, increased staffing, improved infrastructure and enhanced technology integration across its ports of entry.

The Easter operational plan will run in phases from March 31 to April 9, covering both departure and return travel periods. Peak outbound traffic is expected between March 31 and April 4, while inbound volumes are projected to surge from April 5 to April 9, particularly on Easter Monday.

Authorities anticipate traffic volumes could exceed 25 000 travellers per day at the busiest ports and have urged travellers to plan their journeys in advance to avoid delays.

The coordinated plan underscores both countries’ commitment to facilitating smooth, secure and efficient cross-border movement during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.