Call for adoption of innovative border management systems

Authorities at the Plumtree border post have called for the adoption of innovative border management systems to improve security as the country prepares to re-open its borders.

Briefing the Home Affairs and Security Services Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Plumtree border post operational challenges and its preparedness to re-open, Assistant Regional Immigration officer in charge of Plumtree, Mr Blessing Marwa said the port of entry management system is now outdated.

He emphasised the importance of adopting ict-based management processes to strengthen security and safety mechanisms as the nation prepares to re-open its borders under the new normal.

Besides the technical challenges, Mr Marwa highlighted that the general conditions of service at the border post are deplorable.

In response, the acting chairperson of the portfolio committee, Retired Brigadier General Kallisto Gwanetsa promised an urgent response.

Plumtree border post links Zimbabwe and Botswana and serves 2 500 travellers on a daily basis.  However, movement of travellers has dropped by 98% to an average of 40 travellers per day due the covid-19-induced lockdown.