South Africa is facing a border crisis, as illegal crossings, smuggling, poaching, and corruption pose serious threats to the country’s security and stability. The Border Management Authority (BMA), a new agency established in 2020, manages and secures the country’s 4,862 km of land borders and 3,751 km of coastline.
A Busy Week at Beit Bridge
One of the busiest and most problematic border posts in South Africa is Beit Bridge, which connects the country with Zimbabwe. The BMA processed more than 119,000 people into South Africa through Beit Bridge from January 1 to January 7, 2024. However, not everyone who tried to enter the country had the requisite documentation. The BMA intercepted 480 people who were attempting to enter the country illegally, either through the port of entry or along the borderline, where border guards and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) are deployed.
The BMA’s Commissioner, Dr Mike Masiapato, said that the implementation of the festive plan, which aims to facilitate the movement of people and goods during the holiday season, was going according to plan. He added that the BMA was working closely with other stakeholders, such as the Department of Home Affairs, the South African Revenue Service, and the SAPS, to ensure a smooth and safe border management process.
Other Border Security Issues
Beit Bridge is not the only border post that faces security challenges. Along the Limpopo River, which forms part of the border with Zimbabwe, car smuggling has increased in recent years. The Provincial Crime Intelligence Office discovered three National Vehicle Crime Syndicates operating in Limpopo, which were responsible for stealing and smuggling cars across the border. The BMA said that it was working with the SAPS and other law enforcement agencies to combat this illegal activity.
Another border security issue that affects South Africa is the rampant poaching of wildlife, especially rhinos, and elephants, which are killed for their horns and tusks. The BMA said that it was collaborating with the Department of Environmental Affairs and other conservation bodies to protect the country’s biodiversity and natural resources from poachers and smugglers.
A Vision for the Future
President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the Border Management Authority Act into law in 2020, which established the BMA. The BMA’s vision is to ensure effective and efficient border management that contributes to the security, social and economic development, and regional integration of South Africa. The BMA’s mandate is to perform all border law enforcement functions and coordinate the activities of all organs of state and agencies involved in border management.
The BMA is also part of the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which aims to create a continent with seamless borders and free movement of people, goods, and services.Â
In conclusion, the BMA’s Commissioner, Dr Mike Masiapato, said that the BMA was ready to face the challenges and opportunities that come with border management. He said that the BMA was confident that it would deliver on its mandate and make a positive difference in the lives of South Africans and the region.
Source: New Zimbabwe
