By Angela Hanuka
Zambia and Zimbabwe have agreed to review border opening hours and strengthen border agency capabilities, including the ongoing 24-hour border pilot and coordinated border management.
According to a letter of intent, the two countries will also establish a Joint Commission Sub-committee on Security to oversee the pilot program and facilitate Customs-to-Customs data sharing arrangements.
The agreement further includes plans to improve commercial border clearance and reduce congestion caused by heavy traffic within the Heritage Site.
Tourism Minister Rodney Sikumba announced that a pilot program will be developed to test joint Customs, border, and bridge operational arrangements. He made the remarks after the close of the high-level Zambia–Zimbabwe tourism and trade facilitation meeting in Livingstone.
Meanwhile, Nathan Belete, World Bank Division Director, pledged full support for the initiative, noting that modernizing the border will enhance economic development, create jobs, and stimulate growth on both sides.
