The Border Management Authority (BMA) has taken note of the planned strike action at the Lebombo Border by the community of Nkomazi on 18 October 2023. The BMA has been requested to receive the memorandum from the community which highlights the challenges of criminal activities occurring at and along Lebombo port of entry.
The BMA is particularly concerned that these criminal activities, if not addressed, will culminate in massive loss of trade revenue. Reports received highlight that the strike action emanates from criminal actions taking place during the congestions and delays experienced relating to clearing vehicles through the border process. The BMA calls for the challenges to be resolved in order to continue harnessing the economic opportunity in the Maputo corridor. The BMA calls for a smooth facilitation, an engagement process has already been initiated between the Department of Transport, the BMA, South African National Road Agency Limited (SANRAL) and the Mozambique government to foster a positive border management control system.
The BMA Commissioner, Dr Michael Masiapato has assured the public that the operations at the Lebombo Border will proceed as normal. “We have put in a contingency plan that will allow the match to unfold in a peaceful manner. This has been done in conjunction with the all stakeholders that are charged with border control, including the SAPS and Traffic Management. Deployments have been enforced on the ground to ensure adherence to normal border control processes. A communique has also been communicated to the Mozambican government on the situation,” Dr Masiapato added.
The Lebombo border has also been earmarked for future re-developed as an initiative to ensure efficient cross-border management of movement of people, goods and services. This will also guarantee improved revenue collection and preventing harmful imports and exports. The strike action for today will be closely monitored for no disruption of services at the Lebombo border.
Enquiries:
Ms Mmemme Mogotsi
Deputy Assistant Commissioner: Communications and Marketing
Cell: 072 856 4288
Email: mmemme.mogotsi@bma.gov.za
