The three-day bilateral talks bring together representatives from SA’s Border Management Authority (BMA) and their counterparts from Mozambique. High on the agenda are issues of cross-border trade, border security, and improving the efficiency of operations at the Lebombo Border Post.

BMA Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato said considerable progress had already been made in addressing delays, particularly those affecting cargo trucks. In the past, drivers would often queue for days, leaving them vulnerable to theft and other crimes.

“Soon we’ll be announcing a private partner who will help us redesign the Lebombo border,” Masiapato said during the meeting. “The aim is to create dedicated freight lanes and move towards a non-stop border post model.”

The meeting also reviewed the implementation of a joint action plan signed by both countries last year, aimed at boosting cross-border policing and curbing transnational organised crime.

Officials on both sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation to ensure that the movement of goods and people across the border is both safer and more efficient.

--ChannelAfrica--