Kazungula OSBP begins 24-hour operations April 1

Preparations to transition the Kazungula One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) to 24-hour operations are underway, with full implementation scheduled for April 1. Addressing the Chobe District Development Committee recently, Kazungula Bridge Authority (KBA) executive director, Mr Mukela Muyonda confirmed that the authority had fast-tracked the rollout, following a directive from Presidents Duma Boko and Hakainde Hichilema to transition to a 24-hour and ultimately non-stop border post. Mr Muyonda revealed that the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) recently piloted 24-hour operations following a strategic meeting with the KBA.

He added that other border agencies were continuing to build momentum leading up to April 1. Furthermore, he noted that the KBA was set to meet with the Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS) to strategise the transition and implement systems that ensured seamless shift for travellers and logistics companies. Again, he emphasised that robust IT systems were the backbone of such a transition and modernised systems would allow cargo transporters to capitalise on pre-clearance efficiency and minimise physical inspections for low-risk goods.

He also informed the committee that the KBA’s mandate had been broadened by the two member states with a goal to transform the authority from a single-asset operator into a regional investment platform that catalysed development in logistics, tourism, agriculture and related supply chains. “The effectiveness of the Kazungula OSBP hinges on efficient border management and strong coordination between agencies in Botswana and Zambia,” he said. He added that such a mandate was driven by rising traffic along major routes like the North-South Corridor, surging exports in mining, agriculture and manufacturing from Zambia and neighbouring countries as well as increased passenger movement within the Kazungula-Victoria Falls-Chobe region. Mr Muyonda further stated that the authority would continue engaging with governments, border agencies and all stakeholders to realise the full potential of the 24-hour OSBP.BOPA