adminIn a statement, Zimra commissioner general Mr Gershem Pasi said the system was the first of its kind in the country.
He said the solar power system had already been launched at Nyamapanda Border Post at the end of last month.
He said another solar power system would be launched at Plumtree Border Post in February.
“The introduction of such is also expected to spread to all other Zimra border stations throughout the country,” he said.
Mr Pasi said the system at Nyamapanda consisted of 125 solar panels and an inverter with a capacity to produce 20 Kilowatts per hour.
Through the installation of the power system, the border post will generate 50 KWh of energy everyday if weather conditions are favourable.
“This enables the system to sustain 31 computers, 22 connected to the commercial official office and nine to the traffic motor section,” he said.
Mr Pasi said the solar systems would provide energy for lighting, computers, printers and essential services including perimeter lighting at the commercial office.
“Zimra is honoured to harness what the environment can provide for us.”
He said of late Zimra had been seeking innovative ways of making it increasingly convenient for its clients to transact with the authority.
Among other innovative measures, Zimra has embraced the introduction of direct banking, real time banking, and use of scanners at ports of entry and exit, and the opening of a large client office as well as the upgrading of its information technology systems
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe has an opportunity to reclaim its reputation as a safe, hospitable and attractive destination during the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) general assembly later this year, Mr Pasi has said.
Speaking at a function to mark International Customs Day which is held on 26 January, he said the UNTWO general assembly has provided the country with an opportunity to reclaim its glory.
International Customs Day acknowledges the efforts of people working in customs organisations worldwide and their contribution to making communities safe, secure and prosperous.
“As Zimra we will do everything within our means to play our part at ports of entry and exit diligently in order to portray a positive image of Zimbabwe,” he said.
Mr Pasi highlighted the need for infrastructural development and called for efficient systems at border posts to ease congestion.
“I fervently believe that if infrastructural challenges at the border post are addressed, our strategies as Zimra to facilitate smooth trade and travel will bear more fruit.”
He said Zimra was engaging the banking sector as well as riding on fibre networks to improve the efficiency and reliability of plastic transactions at border posts and airports.
Mr Pasi said Zimra was also upgrading its web based ASYCUDA system to meet the demands of its clients in order to improve speed of access and efficiency.
This year’s commemorations ran under the theme, “Innovation for Customs progress.”
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter