Online Reporter
Sunday Mail Reporter
IN a move that is expected to result in faster border crossings, reduced fraud, enhanced transparency and improved claims handling, Zimbabwe officially launched the COMESA yellow card USSD application on Friday.
The platform enables real-time verification of the COMESA yellow card insurance, marking a pivotal shift from manual checks to instant digital validation using basic mobile phones.
The COMESA yellow card is a regional third-party motor insurance certificate that allows vehicles to travel across member states with valid coverage, obtained in the driver’s home country and verified at borders.
The launch event, attended by senior Government officials, the insurance sector and representatives from law-enforcement agencies, was hailed as a transformative moment for the region.
In his address, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Professor Amon Murwira, who was represented by acting chief director (economic cooperation, international trade and diaspora) in his ministry Mrs Sienzeni Mateta, framed the initiative within the broader context of regional integration and economic security.
“In an era where our economies are increasingly interconnected, the ability to ensure seamless and secure cross-border trade is more critical than ever,” Prof Murwira said.
“For the 2022/2023 period, a total of 308 844 yellow cards were issued, generating a total premium of US$17,2 million. These numbers represent the safety and security of countless journeys and the strengthening of economic ties within our region.”
The technological solution directly addresses long-standing verification challenges.
In a speech read on his behalf by Assistant Commissioner Gajiwett Gomo, Zimbabwe Republic Police Commissioner-General Mr Stephen Mutamba said the new platform only allowed valid yellow cards to circulate.
He said traditional manual processes have sometimes led to delays, inaccuracies, and, in some cases, fraud.
He, however, indicated that the initiative was a testament to their commitment to embracing technology to enhance operations.
The Insurance and Pensions Commission (IPEC) said the development would help ensure market conduct, consumer protection and regulatory compliance.
“The digital yellow card USSD tool enhances transparency for enforcement agencies, reduces administrative bottlenecks for insurers and offers peace of mind to policyholders,” said IPEC director (insurance) Mrs Sibongile Siwela.
Mr James Mharadze, who is the CEO of the National Bureau of Zimbabwe and Insurance Council of Zimbabwe chairperson, said enforcement agents had been equipped with the necessary skills.
“Together, we have conducted extensive on-site training sessions at key border points to equip our enforcement agents with the necessary skills,” he said, emphasising a partnership-driven approach that has included distributing informative materials to ensure widespread adoption.
