Zimpapers Logo

Thupeyo Muleya Beitbridge Bureau

SOUTH Africa’s Border Management Authority (BMA) will this week hold an inaugural border management conference and expo to discuss challenges affecting operations at its major port of entry including Beitbridge which handles an estimated seven million travellers annually.

In a statement, BMA Commissioner, Dr Michael Masiapato said effective border management was essential to national security, economic growth, and social stability.

The conference will begin in Pretoria on Wednesday.

“With just two days to go before the start of the event, all systems go to ensure the successful hosting of this significant gathering.
The inaugural Conference, this year being hosted by the Border Management Authority (BMA), will drive critical discussions about developments within border management, and the latest trends in technology, products and services within both the public and private sectors,” he said.

“Throughout the day, industry experts will unpack the critical role of border management in protecting national security, including the challenges posed by terrorism, trafficking, and organised crime. A variety of high-profile speakers and captains of industries will grace the event for a solution-based discussion on border management.

“Effective, well-managed borders are essential for safeguarding public safety, fostering economic growth, and upholding national interests. As the BMA, we are eager to engage in discussions on strengthening our commitment to national security and protecting the Republic’s interests to the fullest extent possible”.

He said delegates attending the expo include experts in government, state-owned enterprises, technology specialists, military and defence representatives, law enforcement, security services, border agencies, correctional services and emergency services, amongst others.

Since its launch last year, the BMA and Zimbabwean authorities have been collaborating on fighting crime at their border.