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Source: Zim, SA approve tourists only border crossing – herald

Ivan Zhakata

ZIMBABWE and South Africa have approved the launch of a tourism-only border crossing between Kruger National Park and Gonarezhou National Park through the Pafuri-Sengwe corridor.

The pilot project, announced in a joint media statement by the two countries’ Ministries of Home Affairs, will run from May 1 to November 30, 2025.

The seasonal access point will allow pre-scheduled movement of tourists using 4×4 vehicles between the two national parks as part of efforts to boost regional eco-tourism within the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area (GLTFCA), which spans Zimbabwe, South Africa and Mozambique.

The pilot facility was approved by South Africa’s Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber through the Border Management Authority and Zimbabwe’s Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe.

“This pilot crossing reflects our commitment to regional integration and conservation-led tourism,” said Minister Kazembe.

“It is expected to enhance visitor experiences, promote biodiversity protection and drive community-based economic growth.”

The crossing will operate twice a week from 1100 hours to 1500 hours and is limited to travellers with pre-booked accommodation within the GLTFCA.

A minimum of four nights is required, two in South Africa’s Kruger National Park (Makuleke Region, Awelani Lodge, or other approved facilities) and two in Zimbabwe’s Gonarezhou National Park or designated lodges.

Travellers must register with the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) and South African National Parks (SANParks) and complete immigration exemption forms at least 14 days before travel.

The forms will be submitted to the Zimbabwe Department of Immigration and the Border Management Authority in South Africa for processing.

Border checks will be conducted at Pafuri Gate in South Africa and the designated entry point in Zimbabwe. Travellers will undergo identity verification, passport checks, vehicle inspections and health screening. Yellow fever certificates will be required for travellers from affected countries or those in transit through affected areas for over 12 hours.

Movement of commercial goods, plant and animal products and unauthorised items will not be permitted.

Personal-use medicine will only be allowed with a valid prescription and must not exceed required quantities.

“This is a game-changer for cross-border tourism in Southern Africa,” said Minister Schreiber.

“The crossing provides a new model for facilitating regulated, sustainable and low-impact travel across conservation areas.”

The authorities said strict eco-tourism and biosecurity protocols will be enforced, including adherence to speed limits, waste disposal regulations and cultural sensitivity requirements. Travellers will only be allowed entry and exit on scheduled dates, and must exit the receiving country through an official international border within visa limits.

The pilot project is intended to test feasibility and demand for cross-border tourism access.

The post Zim, SA approve tourists only border crossing appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.

Source: Let us unite to tackle drugs menace among youths: Minister – herald

Remember Deketeke

Herald Reporter

The Government has called for urgent action to address mental health and substance abuse issues among children and youth, highlighting the threat these challenges pose to the nation’s future.

Speaking at the Guta RaMwari convention in Harare yesterday, Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Minister Senator Monica Mutsvangwa stressed the need for collective efforts to tackle the crisis.

Minister Mutsvangwa expressed deep concern over the increasing number of youths engaging in drug and substance abuse, which she said jeopardises their education, health, and long-term prospects.

“Mental health must be prioritised, especially among children. We are now witnessing an alarming number of young people falling into drug and substance abuse, putting their lives and futures at serious risk.”

She urged families, schools, churches, and communities to strengthen early intervention strategies and provide psychosocial support to vulnerable children and teenagers.

The minister also stressed the critical role of education in breaking the cycle of poverty and inequality, with a special focus on the challenges faced by girls.

“We must continue to promote education for all children, particularly the girl child, who still faces numerous social and economic barriers. Education is the most powerful tool to fight poverty, build confidence and empower women to shape Zimbabwe’s future,” she said.

In addition to mental health and education, Minister Mutsvangwa highlighted the importance of supporting women in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by enhancing their digital skills and access to innovation.

“Let us empower women in business and help them adapt to digital advancements. This will drive income generation, self-sufficiency and broader economic growth,” she said.

Speaking at the same event, Guta RaMwari leader, Mr Ngaite Jefris Zimunya, emphasised the church’s role in combating societal ills such as drug abuse through moral guidance and community support.

“The church remains a pillar in addressing challenges like substance abuse. Our teachings promote discipline, resilience and a strong moral foundation,” he said.

Retired Major General Charles Tarumbwa, the church’s Harare provincial leader, echoed these sentiments, underscoring the importance of Government-church collaboration in fostering national development.

“The partnership between the Government and the church is vital. Together, we can promote unity, peace and shared values that uplift our communities,” he said.

The Guta RaMwari convention, which drew congregants from across Zimbabwe, focused on spiritual renewal, youth empowerment and social responsibility. The discussions reinforced the need for a multi-stakeholder approach to tackle the nation’s pressing challenges.

The Government is taking measures such as expanding mental health services for youth and strengthening educational access, particularly for girls to combat the drug abuse scourge.

Apart from that boosting women’s economic participation through small to medium enterprises support is another intervention that is critical is tackling the vice.

Enhancing partnerships between Government, faith groups and communities to foster sustainable development is also fundamental to confronting challenges wrought by drug abuse.

The post Let us unite to tackle drugs menace among youths: Minister appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.

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