Online Reporter
Theseus Mauruki Shambare in KARIBA
ZIMBABWE and Zambia will today unveil newly installed boundary navigation buoys on Lake Kariba designed to improve navigation safety, clearly define sections of the two countries’ international boundary and strengthen joint management of one of Southern Africa’s most strategic shared water bodies.
The buoys will be officially inspected during the 2026 African Border Day commemorations in Kariba, where Government officials, border experts and delegates from across Africa are expected to witness the latest milestone in cross-border cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.
In an interview ahead of the commemorations, Permanent Secretary for Lands and Rural Development, Professor Prosper Bvumiranayi Matondi, said the inspection of the navigation buoys would be one of the key highlights of this year’s event.
“A key highlight of the commemorations will be the inspection of the newly installed navigation buoys on Lake Kariba, which clearly mark sections of the Zimbabwe – Zambia international boundary while enhancing navigation safety on the lake,” he said.
The floating markers, which are securely anchored to the lake bed, serve as highly visible reference points for vessels navigating Lake Kariba.
Besides guiding boat operators, the buoys clearly indicate sections of the Zimbabwe-Zambia international boundary, helping reduce accidental border crossings while improving safety for commercial fishing, tourism, law enforcement and other marine activities.
Lake Kariba is one of Africa’s largest inland water bodies and supports thousands of livelihoods through commercial fishing, tourism, houseboat operations, transport services and hydroelectric power generation, making effective management of the shared resource critical to both countries.
The unveiling comes as African countries intensify implementation of the African union Border Programme, which seeks to transform borders from potential flashpoints into zones of peace, cooperation, integration and sustainable development.
Professor Matondi said delegates attending the commemorations would deliberate on the implementation of the African union Border Programme and the Niamey Convention, focusing on practical measures to strengthen border governance across the continent.
He said the discussions come at a critical time as Africa accelerates implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“These discussions come at a critical time as Africa advances the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), where peaceful, secure and well-managed borders are essential for expanding trade, facilitating investment and promoting the safe movement of people and goods,” he said.
Professor Matondi said delegates would also engage border communities, reaffirming that effective border governance is not only about governments and institutions but also about improving the safety, livelihoods and wellbeing of citizens living along Africa’s shared frontiers.
“Zimbabwe remains fully committed to the African Union’s vision of peaceful, prosperous and well-governed borders that contribute to regional stability, economic integration and inclusive growth,” he said.
“Working together with Zambia and our regional and continental partners, we will continue promoting dialogue, cooperation and sustainable management of our shared borders for the benefit of present and future generations.”
The unveiling is expected to further strengthen Zimbabwe – Zambia cooperation on border management while demonstrating how neighbouring countries can jointly manage shared natural resources to advance regional peace, security and economic integration.
