Zimbabwe, South Africa Launch Border Management Authority in Bid for Regional Integration

In an effort for diplomatic development, President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe and President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa held a meeting on October 5, 2023, laying a foundation for a collaboration between the two nations.

This collaboration has resulted in the launch of the Border Management Authority (BMA) in Musina, Limpopo Province and is expected to further strengthen the relations between the two countries, particularly at the Beitbridge Border Post, marking a milestone in regional integration efforts.

Among the key topics on the agenda for their meeting are various border-related issues including Zimbabwe's transformation of its portion of the border, to improve efficiency and align with the development goals of South Africa.

Also, about the Zimbabwe upgrade of the Beitbridge Border Post which has been completed through a private-public partnership with the Zimborders Consortium, for US$300 million. 

This development includes the establishment of three terminals for freight, buses, and private cars/pedestrians. Additionally, automated links have been established with South Africa, Zambia, Botswana, Mozambique, Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, and Tanzania.

Prior to these developments, the South Africa's Presidency stated that the launch of the BMA follows its formal establishment as a schedule 3 (A) public entity on April 1, 2023. This development means that South Africa now possesses an integrated border management platform with a single command and control structure to support secure borders, safe travel, and trade.

As part of the launch event, the two leaders will embark on a joint tour of the Beitbridge border which will be supported by members of the Inter-Ministerial Coordinating Committee (IMCC) on the Border Management Authority.