Debra Matabvu
Senior Reporter
The Government has set aside US$300 million for the refurbishment and overhauling of the Chirundu and Forbes border posts beginning next year, as the country seeks to cement its status as a regional transport hub and preferred gateway for north-south bound traffic.
In addition, the Nyamapanda and Kanyemba border posts are also set to be rehabilitated under the Harare-Nyamapanda and Harare-Kanyemba road projects respectively next year.
According to authorities, financial closure for the Chirundu Border Post project is projected for the first quarter of 2026, while the upgrading of Forbes is set to be implemented between 2026 and 2028, marking a key milestone toward the full implementation of cross-border infrastructure development.
The refurbishment of the borders will see the installation of equipment and devices set to effectively manage border movements, combat smuggling and ensure quality control of imported goods.
The Government is also set to construct houses for Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) and Department of Immigration staff at the border posts.
Other ports of entry to be remodelled and rehabilitated in the near future include Plumtree border post, while the Government is exploring plans to develop a second across the Limpopo River to enhance movement and connectivity.
Similar plans are being made for Machipinda border post in Mashonaland East.
The rehabilitation of border posts comes after the successful completion of the modernisation of the Beitbridge border post in 2022.
According to the National Development Strategy (NDS) 2 (2026-2030) recently commissioned by President Mnangagwa, the Government will prioritise the modernisation of ports of entry and exit to facilitate trade in line with global best practices, reduce border bottlenecks and streamline operations in line with regional and international standards and obligations.
The projects will also curb revenue leakages.
“Upgrading of facilities at an estimated cost of US$232 million, to be implemented over the period 2026-2028, aims at improving customs processing, security and trade facilitation,” the economic blueprint highlighted.
“Development and modernisation of Chirundu Border Post, at an estimated cost of US$68,8 million, will be implemented through a public-private partnership, leveraging private sector expertise and investment to enhance operational efficiency and infrastructure quality.
“For Nyamapanda border post, upgrading works through public-private partnership arrangements, focusing on modern customs facilities, improved traffic management and enhanced cross-border trade services will be undertaken.
The project is part of the Harare-Nyamapanda Road rehabilitation project at a combined cost of US$262 million to be completed by 2029.
“The upgrade of Kanyemba border post is part of the rehabilitation and upgrade of the Harare-Kanyemba highway, at a combined cost of US$384 million to be implemented through a public-private partnership over a period of three years, expected to be completed by 2029.”
In addition, the 2026 Zimbabwe Infrastructure Investment Programme highlights that modern and functional border posts, coupled with requisite ancillary infrastructure, will establish Zimbabwe as a regional transport and facilitator hub.
“Following the successful implementation of the Beitbridge Border Post Modernisation Programme and the immense benefits now accruing through the efficient movement of traffic and systems for effective border patrol and management, efforts will focus on finalising remaining processes for the commencement of work on Chirundu and Forbes Border Posts,” the document reads in part.
“The financial closure for Chirundu Border Post is expected to be concluded during the first quarter of 2026.
“Additionally, through the budget, the Government will capacitate border management agencies with tools of trade, installation of systems and housing accommodation. Critical among these interventions is equipment and devices to effectively manage border movements, combat smuggling and ensure quality control of imported goods.”
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