Victoria Falls Border Post now open 24 hours, move set to boost tourism and trade

 VICTORIA Falls Border Post will now process clients 24 hours of the day in a significant move expected to boost tourist arrivals and ensure seamless trade between Zimbabwe and Zambia.

Through an Extraordinary Government Gazette, General Notice 2265A of 2025, issued recently, Secretary for Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Ambassador Raphael Faranisi, announced the policy shift.

“It is hereby declared that in terms of section 41 of the Immigration Act (Chapter 4:02), the Minister has extended the operating hours for the Victoria Falls Border Post to twenty-four (24) hours on a daily basis, with effect from the date of publication of this notice,” reads the notice published November 13.

The opening of the border post between Zimbabwe and Zambia is set to be accompanied by immense benefits, including boosting tourism. With the border now open round‑the‑clock, tourists can travel anytime, giving them flexibility to explore both sides of the majestic Victoria Falls without worrying about a curfew. This can make the famous “Smoke That Thunders” a more convenient bucket‑list experience.

Also, traders and truck drivers no longer face costly overnight delays or long queues waiting for the border to open. A 24‑hour operation means goods move faster, reducing transportation costs and helping businesses stay competitive.

It is a major win for cross‑border trade between Zimbabwe and Zambia.

The latest development at Victoria Falls Border Post also improves cross‑border movements by local commuters, tourists, and business persons. A 24‑hour border means smoother, quicker travel. This likely encourages more people to travel between the two countries, fostering greater people‑to‑people connections.

Round-the-clock operations also minimise congestion as extending hours helps spread out traffic, decreasing the massive queues and congestion that used to happen when the border closed at 10pm.

Source: Victoria Falls Border Post now open 24 hours, move set to boost tourism and trade (17/10/2025)

See Also

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (11th October 2017) Zim engages Zambia on one border post.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (25th October 2018) Zim, Zambia sign four MoUs.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (28th January 2019) Land Shortage Hits Zimra’s Victoria Falls Border Project.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (8th February 2019) Zimbabwe and Zambia to set up one-stop border post in Victoria Falls.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (15th March 2024) Zim, Zambia broaden cooperation.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (14th November 2025) Zimbabwe Extends Victoria Falls Border Post Hours To 24/7.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (15th November 2025) Mnangagwa, Hichilema co-chair Zimbabwe-Zambia BNC.

 

Zimbabwe Extends Victoria Falls Border Post Hours To 24/7

 

Victoria Falls Border Post Now Open 24 Hours A Day

In a dramatic move set to transform regional travel, the Zimbabwean government has declared that the Victoria Falls Border Post will now operate twenty-four hours a day. This immediate change, announced in an extraordinary government gazette on Thursday, November 14, 2025, signals a major shift for one of the country’s most vital ports of entry. The border, which previously closed its gates at 10PM, will never sleep again.

The official announcement was made by Nick Mangwana on X, where he shared the pivotal news. The legal basis for this round-the-clock operation is General Notice 2265A of 2025, issued under the Immigration Act.

Mangwana posted:

“VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT NOW OPERATING 24/7. Act [Chapter 4:02], the Minister has extended the operating hours for the Victoria Falls Border Post to twenty-four (24) hours on a daily basis, with effect from the date of publication of this notice.”

The notice itself was formally signed by the Secretary for Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Raphael Faranisi. This administrative leap is widely seen as a direct effort to boost tourism and simplify cross-border trade and movement between Zimbabwe and Zambia.

A Boost For Tourism And Trade

Industry experts are hailing the decision as a game-changer. The extended hours provide unprecedented flexibility for tourists wishing to experience both sides of the majestic Victoria Falls, known as Mosi-oa-Tunya (The Smoke That Thunders), without being constrained by a strict curfew.

The move is also a major win for cross-border traders and truck drivers, who often faced long queues and costly overnight delays waiting for the gates to reopen at 6AM.

Timing Coincides With High-Level Talks

The border announcement came at a strategically significant moment. It was published just a day before President Emmerson Mnangagwa was scheduled to host Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema in Harare. The two leaders were set to convene for the inaugural session of the Zambia-Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission on Friday, November 15, 2025.

While not explicitly stated in the gazette, the timing strongly suggests that improved cross-border cooperation was a key item on their agenda. According to the original reporting, the move is expressly intended to “facilitate tourism and trade and improve cross-border movement between Zimbabwe and Zambia.”

Source: Zimbabwe Extends Victoria Falls Border Post Hours To 24/7 (14/11/2025)

See Also

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (11th October 2017) Zim engages Zambia on one border post.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (25th October 2018) Zim, Zambia sign four MoUs.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (28th January 2019) Land Shortage Hits Zimra’s Victoria Falls Border Project.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (8th February 2019) Zimbabwe and Zambia to set up one-stop border post in Victoria Falls.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (15th March 2024) Zim, Zambia broaden cooperation.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (14th November 2025) Zimbabwe Extends Victoria Falls Border Post Hours To 24/7.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (15th November 2025) Mnangagwa, Hichilema co-chair Zimbabwe-Zambia BNC.

Victoria Falls bridge marks 120 years of uniting nations and boosting tourism

 This year marks a monumental milestone for one of Africa’s most iconic structures, the Victoria Falls Bridge, as it celebrates 120 years of connecting Zambia and Zimbabwe while serving as a vital commercial, historical, and tourism landmark.

Since its completion in 1905, the bridge has stood as a testament to engineering brilliance, linking the two nations across the Zambezi River just a few hundred metres from the breathtaking Victoria Falls.

The bridge, constructed entirely from steel, spans an impressive 198 metres across the second gorge of the falls, with its arch rising to 156.50 metres at the top and 128 metres at its base above the river.

In a statement commemorating the anniversary, the Emerged Railway Properties (ERP) Board, which manages the bridge, highlighted the bridge’s enduring significance.

“This year marks the 120th anniversary of the most iconic bridge in Zambia in terms of historical, tourism, and commercial significance. The Victoria Falls Bridge crosses the Zambezi River, just a few hundred metres from the majestic Victoria Falls.

“It is built across the second gorge from the Victoria Falls. It was constructed purely from steel, it spans an impressive 198 metres across the gorge. It is arch-shaped, with the arch rising to a height of approximately 156.50 metres at the top and 128 metres at its base above the Zambezi River,” reads the statement.

On the bridge are a one-vehicle-wide roadway, a railway track, and a footpath in between and on both sides of the bridge.

The bridge is the only rail link between Zambia and Zimbabwe and one of only three road links between the two countries.

The Victoria Falls Bridge remains a critical transport and trade artery for both Zambia and Zimbabwe, facilitating the movement of goods, people, and services.

As the only rail link between the two nations, it has played a pivotal role in regional trade, connecting southern Africa to markets as far as South Africa and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Truck drivers, traders, and tourists alike rely on the bridge daily, making it one of the busiest border crossings in the region.

Its strategic importance cannot be overstated, particularly as both nations continue to explore deeper economic integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Beyond its commercial value, the bridge has become a world-renowned tourism attraction, offering adrenaline-pumping activities such as bungee jumping, gorge swinging, and zip-lining, drawing thousands of adventure seekers annually.

The bridge tour provides visitors with unparalleled views of the Victoria Falls on one side and the historic Victoria Falls Hotel on the other.

“Train tours onto and across the bridge every week give hundreds of tourists a rare opportunity to enjoy the bridge and its unique ambience, while tasting memorable cuisine aboard the train, and viewing the beautiful sunset!” the ERP Board said.

Despite its age, the bridge remains structurally sound, thanks to rigorous maintenance and inspection protocols.

The ERP Board emphasised the collaborative efforts of engineers and security personnel from both Zambia and Zimbabwe in ensuring its longevity.

“The bridge boasts an impressive safety record across the decades as it is managed by experienced engineers who undertake rigorous daily, monthly, quarterly, and annual inspections and management protocols, overseen by a combination of engineers from institutions like the Road Development Agency (RDA) in Zambia, the Zimbabwe Roads Department, specialised Bridge Safety engineers, as well as security personnel from both Zambia and Zimbabwe,” reads the statement.

An independent international engineering firm conducts a principal inspection every five years to assess structural integrity.

The most recent assessment in 2022 confirmed the bridge’s remarkable durability, projecting a lifespan of 200 years from its construction date, meaning it could remain operational until 2105.

“As documented in the present report, the Victoria Falls Bridge is generally very healthy, and the current maintenance schedule is sufficient for securing the durability. When the items listed in the summary above are taken care of, and the good maintenance practice continued, we assume main structures of 200 years from the original construction, i.e. until 2105 (~2100),” reads the statement.

Source: Victoria Falls bridge marks 120 years of uniting nations and boosting tourism (21/07/2025)

Zim, Zambia broaden cooperation

 ZIMBABWE and Zambia yesterday kicked off the 18th session of the two countries’ Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation (JPCC), with both SADC member-states pledging to build on the already existing cordial bilateral relations.

The two countries’ relations continue to grow in leaps and bounds as cooperation across various sectors is on an upward trend.

The previous JPCC between the two countries saw various agreements being signed including MoUs on the establishment of the Victoria Falls-Livingstone One-Stop Border post, an MoU concerning cooperation on the management and preservation of Zimbabwe Liberation War gravesites, another on culture and one on gender equity, equality, and women economic empowerment, among others.

These subsequently set the tone for the 18th session which will see more agreements being signed in various areas.

Addressing delegates at the official opening of the session in Harare yesterday, acting Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs and international Trade Ambassador Rofina Chikava said Harare and Lusaka shared a strong bond that transcends boundaries.

This, she said, had been evidenced by Zambia’s recent call for a total removal of sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe.

“Co-chair, let me start by acknowledging the excellent bilateral relations that exist between the Republic of Zimbabwe and the Republic of Zambia. Characterised by high-level visits between the two countries, these relations have continued to grow and can be traced back to the times when Zimbabwe was fighting for liberation from the colonial Britain.

“In the post-colonial, the two countries have continued to enjoy strong diplomatic ties and co-operation in various sectors. We acknowledge and applaud our dear brothers in Zambia for standing with us in calling for the removal of all sanctions imposed on our country.

“Let me also highlight the bilateral history between Zimbabwe and Zambia, which has a significant impact on the political, economic, and social development of both countries,” she said.

Ambassador Chikava said the two countries continue to cooperate not only on regional issues, but also on various international fora which have furthered their solidarity and shared identity.

“Zimbabwe and Zambia have supported each other in various international forums, advocating for common interests and promoting peace and stability in the region. The two countries continue to witness cultural exchanges and people-to-people interaction, further strengthening the ties between Zimbabwe and Zambia and fostering a sense of solidarity and shared identity.

“Educational exchanges, joint research projects, and sports competitions have all contributed immensely in the connection between the two nations, enhancing the mutual understanding and cooperation.

“Co-chair, we were sharing when we were sitting in our tête-à-tête meeting that even at football, we can fight as Zambia and Zimbabwe, if one goes forward, the other country supports the other for the integrity of our two countries,” she said.

Zimbabwe and Zambia, said Ambassador Chikava, were making concerted efforts to mitigate their respective citizenry from climate change effects.

Thus the cushioning of both peoples was a top priority.

Zambia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary Etambuyu Gundersen said the two countries would continue enhancing their co-operation for their mutual benefit.

“You will recall that at the last session which was held in Lusaka in 2018, our two sides agreed to enhance co-operation in various areas.

“These include foreign affairs, tourism, energy, trade, industry, finance, agriculture, infrastructure, transport and communications, livestock and fisheries, education, as well as youth and sport, just to mention a few.

“Since then, we are still collaborating on the implementation and operationalisation of specific programmes, such as the one you mentioned, Victoria Falls-Livingstone One-Stop Border Post, in addition to the harmonisation of ICT systems at Chirundu, Kariba and Victoria Falls borders, among others,” she said.

Source: Zim, Zambia broaden cooperation (14/03/2024)

See Also

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (11th October 2017) Zim engages Zambia on one border post.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (25th October 2018) Zim, Zambia sign four MoUs.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (28th January 2019) Land Shortage Hits Zimra’s Victoria Falls Border Project.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (8th February 2019) Zimbabwe and Zambia to set up one-stop border post in Victoria Falls.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (15th March 2024) Zim, Zambia broaden cooperation.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (14th November 2025) Zimbabwe Extends Victoria Falls Border Post Hours To 24/7.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (15th November 2025) Mnangagwa, Hichilema co-chair Zimbabwe-Zambia BNC.

Trucks still to use Vic Falls Bridge – for now

Elation by tourism operators that congestion on the historic Victoria Falls Bridge between Zambia and Zimbabwe would be eased – following the banning of commercial long haul trucks – was short-lived.

This decision was overturned following multilateral engagements with the Zambian government and several freight and logistics associations representing the interests of commercial cargo transporters who lobbied to have the bridge remain open to them. 

There were also concerns raised that banning trucks from the bridge would put additional strain on the other border posts, especially Beitbridge.

According to a notice issued by the Zambia Revenue Authority, “the impending restriction of transporting exports and imports above 16 tons through Victoria Falls Border Post by rail only in line with Statutory Instruments No 115 of 2020 has been postponed to a date to be communicated”.

Had the announcement not been made, heavy-haul trucks travelling north or south would have been prevented from crossing the Vic Falls Bridge as of yesterday (March 1).

The decision to ban heavy cargo vehicles was made to boost Zambia’s coronavirus-affected travel industry in the world-famous and environmentally sensitive Mosi-oa-Tunya region.

MD of Victoria Falls-based Pure Africa, Elisabeth Curiger, told Tourism Update that the tourism operator understood that the Victoria Falls region was not only relevant for tourism but for other industries too, including trade and transport.

“That said, queues of trucks, congestion and additional traffic on either side of the border are most certainly not conducive for the tourism industry. We do hope that a long-term solution can be found between truckers and the authorities that strikes a balance among all stakeholders.”

Shearwater Victoria Falls Spokesperson, Clement Mkwasi, agreed, noting in an earlier statement to Tourism Update that the tourism industry had always lamented the defacing of the Victoria Falls aesthetics due to the noise and visual pollution caused by trucks in the resorts. “However, in the spirit of regional integration, free trade and free movement of goods should be promoted for the greater benefit of the two friendly neighbouring countries.”

Source: Trucks still to use Vic Falls Bridge – for now (02/03/2021)

See Also

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (13th February 2021) Zambia clarifies Victoria Falls commercial cargo ban.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (8th February 2021) Zambia bans use of Victoria Falls bridge by haulage trucks.

Zambia clarifies Victoria Falls commercial cargo ban

 Zambian authorities say they have not entirely banned movement of non-commercial goods in and out of Zimbabwe through the Victoria Falls Border Post.

Responding to widespread concerns following the recently issued statement announcing restriction of commercial cargo by road through Victoria Falls border with effect from March 1, the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA), said only commercial cargo and goods in excess of 16 tonnes would be restricted from using Victoria Falls port by road.

The move has raised concerns among a cross section of Zimbabweans who felt the country would lose out on bilateral trade and customs revenue.

Clearing agents feared they would lose business while Victoria Falls residents also said their livelihoods would be affected since many of them used to buy goods from Livingstone before lockdown.

ZRA corporate communications manager, Topsy Sikalinda, restricting commercial cargo volumes was meant to preserve the Victoria Falls Bridge as a tourist destination as well as ensuring sanity.

“We have not banned any groceries or stopped any product from being imported or exported. Please note that non-commercial cargo or vehicles below 16 tonnes will still be allowed to use the Victoria Falls border post,” he said.

“All products can go through the border except that they should be below 16 tonnes if they are using road and if they are above 16 tonnes then they should use rail. The border remains available for use to all hawkers, individual traders and tourists.”

Sikalinda said this was in line with Zambia’s Statutory Instrument 115 of 2020 that came into effect on January 1, 2021. But ordinary, he explained, citizens and hawkers can still use the border as long as their goods do not exceed 16 tonnes. This means that all importation and exportation of commercial cargo through the Victoria Falls border will only be allowed on rail transport.

Also, all commercial cargo intended for import and export by road should use alternative entry or exit points such as Kazungula or Chirundu borders, he said.

Zambia and Botswana recently completed constructing the Kazungula Bridge across the Zambezi River, a facility that is expected to enhance smooth passage of cargo on the north-south corridor.

“This measure is meant to preserve the Victoria Falls Bridge and also bring sanity to Livingstone town, which is Zambia’s main tourist capital,” said Sikalinda.

“The measure is also meant to reduce human animal conflict around the border area where truck accidents have been recorded.”

Victoria Falls city lies directly opposite Livingstone across Zambezi River and complement each other in terms of tourism and environment. There has been concerns about congestion caused by haulage trucks as they wait to be cleared at the Victoria Falls border post either side of the river.

Sikalinda said congestion creates challenges for border officials who are unable to conduct detailed physical inspections due to limited space, against trade volumes that have increased in the region.

This will also reduce human-animal conflict and protect wildlife in the tourism destination. Victoria Falls and Livingstone are located within national parks hence challenges of human wildlife conflict.

Businesses and clearing agents said they will be guided by implementation of the SI.

Shipping and Forwarding Agents Association of Zimbabwe chair for Victoria Falls and Kazungula branch Paul Shambare said the restriction will have minimal effect on business.

“At the moment there is much speculation about the notice but as an association we have sought clarification. If you look at Victoria Falls, 95 percent of its business is traffic that carries copper and other bulky minerals and these are not listed in the schedule because they are usually trucks in transit,” he said.

“While this will have an effect on business, the effect will be insignificant,” said Shambare.

While officiating at the conferment of city status to Victoria Falls Municipality last December, President Mnangagwa said the Zimbabwean side of the border post, particularly the building structure, needs urgent facelift as it has not been upgraded since before independence.

Source: Zambia clarifies Victoria Falls commercial cargo ban (12/02/2021)

See Also

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (3rd March 2021) Trucks still to use Vic Falls Bridge – for now.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (8th February 2021) Zambia bans use of Victoria Falls bridge by haulage trucks.

Zambia bans use of Victoria Falls bridge by haulage trucks

 ZAMBIA has banned the movement of outbound haulage trucks from using Livingstone-Victoria Falls border post saying the move is aimed at preserving the Victoria Falls Bridge and attracting tourists.

In a recent public notice, Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) said the ban, which comes into effect on March 1, will see commercial trucks from Zimbabwe’s neighbouring country using Kazungula Bridge a move that might increase transportation cost for locals and adversely impact revenue collection by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra).

“This notice serves to inform all customs clearing agents and exporters wishing to export goods listed in the 7th Schedule to Statutory Instrument No.115 of 2020 that they should effect the exportation of their goods through the customs ports and aerodromes set out in the Eighth Schedule to the attached Statutory Instrument — (SI 115 of 2020).

“Further, note that goods for export through Victoria Falls Border Post shall only be transported by rail only effective 1st March, 2021,” reads part of the public notice.

It said the SI 115 of 2020 came into effect on 1st January this year.

“You are therefore advised to familiarise yourself with SI 115 of 2020 to avoid unnecessary delays at the borders.”

Speaking to ZBC News last week, ZRA corporate communications manager Mr Topsy Sikalinda said an SI and public notice had been issued to all stakeholders including exporters and those in the transport and logistics, and clearing sectors regarding the ban of commercial trucks from using the Livingstone-Victoria Falls route.

“We are doing this in order to preserve the bridge and apart from preserving the bridge, we also want to bring sanity in the city of Livingstone as you know Livingstone is a tourism capital.

“We have a lot of trucks that make a lot of noise and bring disorder, so we certainly need to bring sanity,” he said.

Economic analyst Mr Peter Mhaka said the ban on outbound commercial trucks from using the Livingstone-Victoria Falls border post by Zambia would reduce revenue collection by Zimra on the Zimbabwe side.

“Not only will the move taken by Zambia reduce revenue collection by Zimra, but this will add (the) costs of importing as using Kazungula border is relatively far compared to using Victoria Falls,” he said.

Zimbabwe and Zambia have cordial political and economic ties. Last year, President Mnangagwa toured the Kazungula Bridge, which links Zambia and Botswana to assess progress on the US$253 million infrastructure that is meant to enhance trade among Southern African countries.

Under the new dispensation, Zimbabwe joined the Kazungula Bridge project across the Zambezi River in phase two of works in 2019. The country joined Botswana and Zambia, and the three countries have agreed to set up a one-stop border post with offices in Zambia and Botswana sides. — ZBC News/Business Chronicle.

Source: Zambia bans use of Victoria Falls bridge by haulage trucks (08/02/21)

More: Vic Falls Border Still Open To Importers, Traders – Zambia Authorities (08/02/21)

See Also

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (3rd March 2021) Trucks still to use Vic Falls Bridge – for now.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (13th February 2021) Zambia clarifies Victoria Falls commercial cargo ban.

 

President directs urgent facelift for Victoria Falls Border

 Leonard Ncube, Victoria Falls Reporter

PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has said that the Victoria Falls Border is in a sorry state and requires urgent facelift to meet modern standards expected from a port of entry into a world destination.

The President visited the Victoria Falls Bridge via the border on Wednesday as he relived memories of how he was deported to Zambia by Rhodesian government after his release from a 10-year detention in 1972.

He has been in Victoria Falls since Tuesday to receive Freedom of the City from the local authority and also conferred City status to the municipality on Wednesday.

“This morning I went to the bridge and the customs area is in a sorry state. The building is old and dilapidated yet it should be the face of the country. I will ask the Minister of Local Government and Public Works to look into the matter and we will ensure to finance any developments that he may come up with,” said President Mnangagwa, who later officiated at the conferment ceremony.

The Victoria Falls Border with Zambia is characterised by a single small building with only two offices for the Immigration Department and Zimbabwe Revenue Authority besides the immigration hall on the entry and exit sides.

Port health, a key department especially during the Covid-19 era, has no office and uses a makeshift facility once used by the Ministry of Agriculture outside the building. The Environmental Management Authority also has no office.

There is also no proper police post at the border and security personnel operate from a small makeshift shed and no parking space for vehicles especially buses and heavy vehicles. This is despite the border being a busy port of entry in the tourism capital alongside Kazungula Border on the border with Botswana further upstream from Victoria Falls.

As a result, there are usually delays in clearing cargo and sometimes human traffic during peak periods because of limited space.

The Victoria Falls Border is a critical facility to the tourism sector as it is used by tourists especially in the Kavango-Zambezi Trans-frontier Conservation Area where a Uni-Visa model is being piloted. Before Covid-19, the border would attend to about 1500 travellers per day. Immigration department’s North Western Region consists of Victoria Falls, Kazungula, Pandamatenga and Binga Border posts as well as Victoria Falls International Airport. The Binga border is still under construction.

Upgrading the border will also be in tandem with the new city status, with the city already having the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange (VFEX) and the Victoria falls International Airport among other developments, which the President said were a symbol of hope and potential in the province.

President Mnangagwa also challenged the city leadership and all stakeholders to utilise the new status to boost national image towards growing the tourism sector and other national investment, trade and modernisation programmes.

He said the Second Republic is committed to implementation and completion of projects laid out in Matabeleland especially within the Victoria Falls-Hwange-Mlibizi-Binga-Sijalila Corridor.

“As the only city in the province and being at the epicentre of development matrix, Victoria Falls must provide leadership in all these endeavours. Furthermore, strong and enabling development control measures must be crafted and promoted to give impetus to the transformation of the city into world class smart city benchmarked against the world’s best,” said President Mnangagwa.

He said Government had allocated $19,5 billion for devolution in the 2021 National Budget, which should lead to development of the country with communities taking responsibility for their own development.

The City Mayor, Councillor Somvelo Dhlamini, commended the Government for unveiling Devolution Funds, which he said had been instrumental in development projects in the city. — @ncubeleon

Source: President directs urgent facelift for Victoria Falls Border (11/12/20)

War over Vic Falls Zambezi bridge

THE tourism industry in Victoria Falls wants commercial vehicles such as haulage trucks to be banned from using the Zambezi bridge saying such traffic negatively impacts on the tourism business.

Tourism executives accuse haulage trucks of blocking the road stretching from Victoria Falls town across the border to the bridge and Livingstone border on the Zambia side as they wait to be cleared.

There are also concerns about massive pollution as most trucks will be carrying smelly toxic substances such as sulphuric acid.

Sometimes tour guides are forced to walk across the border to the bridge with clients as the road will be blocked.

Various activities such as the tour of the Rainforest, tour of the bridge, bungee jumping, and gorge swing among others take place at the bridge.

The issue was raised by an environment expert, Professor Brain Chaltz, on Tuesday at the just ended Africa Union-United Nations Wildlife Economy Summit. He proposed that the bridge be moved about 40KM downstream.

If adopted, this will leave the Zambezi Bridge in Victoria Falls solely for tourism purposes while all commercial vehicles will be relocated downstream.

“The Victoria Falls Bridge was built for tourism more than a century ago but it is now being used for all economic activities. Why not built another bridge about 40km downstream because that way it will be cheaper and quicker as well as shorter for trucks coming from the direction of Bulawayo to cross into Zambia,” said Prof Chaltz.

In response, participants said the future of tourism was at stake. Some suggested that engagements be made with implementers of the Batoka Hydro Electric Project with a possibility of constructing an alternative commercial bridge at the site.

Some also implored representatives of the sector to engage the customs department to possibly introduce scheduled timetables for trucks and tourism.

“We can have all trucks cleared from the truck stop and only go to the border when they are ready to cross. The powers that be should also consider opening the border 24 hours and have trucks cleared and crossing at night so they don’t disturb tourism activities during the day,” said one participant.

Mrs Barbara Murasiranwa, who represented the Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe (TBCZ) said the industry once raised the issue but nothing was done.

“We once wrote to authorities and we were still hoping that something will be done because there is a challenge with trucks as they block the road and the bridge. Sometimes clients have to walk to the bridge for activities because the trucks would have blocked the road,” she said.

Another tourism executive, Mr Robin Brown, concurred saying the net effect and value of tourism was compromised as a result.

“Even the National Parks are victims because the entrance into the Rainforest is blocked for a greater part of the day and we don’t need that in Victoria Falls. There is also high level of pollution as the border is filled with smell of toxic substances such as sulphuric acid carried by the trucks,” he said.

Safari Operators’ Association of Zimbabwe president, Mr Emmanuel Fundira, who chaired the meeting, said the proposal of moving the bridge was long overdue.

“This is the way to go. You have heard what people are saying, in the interim, there are proposals for various methods of trying to stagger activities between commercial and tourism to minimise the immediate conflict,” he said.

Source: War over Vic Falls Zambezi bridge (27/06/19)

Human activities worry Vic Falls environmentalists

Leonard Ncube, Victoria Falls Reporter
SOME environmentalists in Victoria Falls have called for the adoption of an integrated development plan in the country’s prime resort town to protect the environment from human activities.

Speaking during a meeting with the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Environment and Tourism held in Victoria Falls on Friday, environmentalists concurred that the absence of a master plan has a negative impact on the natural habitat which will eventually affect tourism.

They called for a halt in development of landfill sites in the resort town as this pollutes the environment. Chairperson of the Victoria Falls Enviro-Watch Mr Tony Peel warned that the natural habitat faces serious negative effects if human activities are not handled properly.

“The meeting was a massive success. We were not sure if the committee would listen to us but they were receptive and I think going forwards there will be mutual benefits. As organisations we are pro-development of Victoria Falls which is key to Zimbabwe’s future. Up to now the environment has not suffered significantly but if not handled correctly going forwards it can be negatively affected,” he said.

Victoria Falls is a world heritage site situated within the game park and is one of natural wonders monitored by the United Nations through Unesco.

Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee Mrs Concilia Chinanzvavana said an integrated master plan is inevitable.

“We were invited by stakeholders to interface and share ideas to see what impacts the area as a heritage site. A lot needs to be done and some policies need improvement. Key among this is the need for an integrated development plan because the absence of a master plan is a threat to the environment as we may be encroaching onto what we are supposed to be protecting,” said Mrs Chinanzvavana.

She said while industrial growth is key, people need to be mindful of its impact.

She called for dialogue among all stakeholders.

Contributing during the meeting earlier, stakeholders called for recycling projects, the need to plant indigenous plants and dealing with invasive species such as lantana which has populated the Rainforest and gorges along the Zambezi River.

They also raised the need to control the movement of haulage trucks which they said are a threat to tourism as they damage the environment.

The environmentalists expressed concern at the rate at which wild animals are reportedly being killed by vehicles along the main roads especially the Victoria Falls-Kazungula highway and called for widening of the road and introduction of speed traps to control speeding.

They called for speedy completion of a one-stop bridge across the Zambezi River in Kazungula saying this will reduce the impact of haulage trucks in Victoria Falls.

The stakeholders said there are numerous success stories in Victoria Falls as a result of joint efforts by different stakeholders.

The tourism Special Economic Zone (SEZ) town of Victoria Falls last year said it has a five-year development plan which, however, requires about $75 million to implement.

Victoria Falls Municipality and Hwange Rural District Council (HRDC last year agreed to integrate developmental programmes to promote tourism in their five-year strategic plans.

The two had not been working in concert despite being in the same tourism district where the mighty Victoria Falls, Hwange, Chamabondo and Zambezi National are located.

source: Human activities worry Vic Falls environmentalists (11/02/19)

Zimbabwe and Zambia to set up one-stop border post in Victoria Falls

 Zimbabwe and Zambia are working on plans to make the existing Victoria Falls Border Post – which links the two countries – as a one-stop border post, to expedite the movement of travellers and cargo.

Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) Commissioner General, Faith Mazani, says the concept will also be spread to other border posts after the roll-out of the Vic Falls post.

Mazani says a one-stop border post already exists at Chirundu, and was one of the first such initiatives in the region. An agreement between the Zimbabwean and Zambian presidents initiated the development of the Vic Falls Border Post.

The advantages of a one-stop border post are that traffic going into Zambia will be cleared on the Zambian side, while traffic entering Zimbabwe is cleared on the Zimbabwean side, thereby cutting down time spent at the border.

“We are also looking at the same initiative with South Africa. The Beitbridge Border Post (24-hour South Africa-Zimbabwe border post) is the biggest inland border in the region, and facilitates trade from South Africa – more specifically, Durban – connecting the world to Africa, even to countries such as the DRC and Tanzania.”

Mazani says staff will not be retrenched in the switch to a one-stop border post, however systems for a virtual border post are being developed. “We are also in discussions with our governments to have a one-stop border post at Plumtree (Botswana-Zimbabwe), and we will be expanding the network of one-stop border posts; but this of course depends on the infrastructure capital we need to build these facilities.”

Source: Zimbabwe and Zambia to set up one-stop border post in Victoria Falls (07/02/19)

See Also

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (11th October 2017) Zim engages Zambia on one border post.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (25th October 2018) Zim, Zambia sign four MoUs.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (28th January 2019) Land Shortage Hits Zimra’s Victoria Falls Border Project.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (8th February 2019) Zimbabwe and Zambia to set up one-stop border post in Victoria Falls.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (15th March 2024) Zim, Zambia broaden cooperation.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (14th November 2025) Zimbabwe Extends Victoria Falls Border Post Hours To 24/7.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (15th November 2025) Mnangagwa, Hichilema co-chair Zimbabwe-Zambia BNC.

Land Shortage Hits Zimra's Victoria Falls Border Project

The shortage of land is undermining efforts by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) to implement the on-stop-border border post concept at Victoria Falls, it has emerged.

Government is establishing one-stop-border concepts at the country's ports of

entry with Chirundu border on the boundary with Zambia the only facility so far completed.

The programme involves expansion of Victoria Falls, Kazungula, Plumtree, Forbes and Beitbridge border posts to enhance efficiency and improve trade by reducing time spent by travellers and cargo at the borders.

However, Zimra commissioner general Faith Mazani said there is no land for expansion of the Victoria Falls border.

"We do want to facilitate the one-stop border in Victoria Falls but we are restricted by the fact that this is a tourist area," she said.

"There is the game park, the river and railway line and we are looking at opportunity from local government where we can build our commercial facility to ensure that we live up to the smart border concept."

She was speaking at the recent commemoration of the International Customs Day in the resort town. The commemorations are held on the 26th January annually

Meanwhile, Zimra has adopted use of information communication technology systems and other innovative products at border posts to enhance efficiency.

"I am proud to intimate to you that the Electronic Temporary Import Permit project (e-TIP) has been so successful in dealing with the issue of border congestion at Beitbridge Border Post during this past festive season," said the Zimra boss.

"The project allowed travellers to pre-clear their vehicles online thereby reducing the congestion which often worked as a bottleneck to our travellers and tourists.

"We are now working at improving the e-TIP system so that visitors will spend an average of between 3 to 5 minutes to get their temporary import permits processed."

Source: Land Shortage Hits Zimra's Victoria Falls Border Project (28/01/19)

See Also

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (11th October 2017) Zim engages Zambia on one border post.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (25th October 2018) Zim, Zambia sign four MoUs.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (28th January 2019) Land Shortage Hits Zimra’s Victoria Falls Border Project.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (8th February 2019) Zimbabwe and Zambia to set up one-stop border post in Victoria Falls.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (15th March 2024) Zim, Zambia broaden cooperation.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (14th November 2025) Zimbabwe Extends Victoria Falls Border Post Hours To 24/7.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (15th November 2025) Mnangagwa, Hichilema co-chair Zimbabwe-Zambia BNC.

 

Zim, Zambia sign four MoUs

 Zimbabwe and Zambia yesterday signed four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) as the two sister republics moved to elevate and deepen their historical and economic relations.

President Mnangagwa and his Zambian counterpart President Edgar Chagwa Lungu oversaw the signing ceremony at the Zambian State House.

The signing ceremony followed a two-day meeting of the 17th Session of the Zimbabwe-Zambia Joint Permanent Commission that ended here yesterday.

The first MoU was on the establishment of a one-stop border post at the Victoria Falls/Livingstone border.

Industry and Commerce Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu signed the MoU on behalf of Zimbabwe, while Zambian Minister of Commerce and Industry Christopher Yaluma signed on behalf of his country.

The second MoU was on the cooperation of management and preservation of Zimbabwe’s liberation war grave sites.

Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Cain Mathema, who is also the acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, signed on behalf of Zimbabwe while Zambia was represented by its Tourism Minister Charles Banda.

The MoU seeks to promote and appreciate the history and values, ideals and goals of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle and construction and reconstruction of site museums and monuments at the grave sites.

The two ministers also signed a third MoU on cultural exchange cooperation under which the two countries seek to enhance cooperation in the field of culture and arts.

Women’s Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Minister Sithembiso Nyoni and her Zambian counterpart Elizabeth Phiri, who is the Gender Minister, signed the fourth MoU on gender equity and equality and women empowerment through sharing experiences.

Before the signing ceremony, Zambian Foreign Affairs Minister Joseph Malanji briefed the two Heads of State and Government on the deliberations and outcomes of the Joint Permanent Commission.

In his brief remarks, Minister Malanji said: “The Joint Permanent Commission agreed on new areas of cooperation on industrialisation, investment promotion, works and supply and child development. The challenges faced at Chirundu one-stop border post, it was agreed to link and harmonise ICT systems procedures in the two countries in order to ensure full operation of the one-stop border post. Coming to progress, we have registered progress in the joint projects such as the Batoka Power Project and Kariba North and South Power projects. The Joint Permanent Commission called on the need to expedite the formalities on the twinning between Lusaka and the Mashonaland Central province as well as southern and Mashonaland West provinces in order to enhance the relations between the two sides.”

Minister Malanji said Zambia was also excited by the donation of two male rhinos by Zimbabwe.

Said Minister Malanji: “The two sides reaffirmed to continue cooperation at regional and international fora, especially under the framework of the Troika of the Sadc Organ, Defence, Politics and Security Cooperation where Zambia is the chair and Zimbabwe is the incoming chair. We agreed to hold the 18th session of the Joint Permanent Commission in Zimbabwe.”

He said it was their wish as the Joint Permanent Commission to upgrade relations between the two countries to Bi-National Commission level.

Other ministers from Zimbabwe who attended the 17th session of Joint Permanent Commission were Energy and Power Development Minister Jorum Gumbo, Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Joel Biggie Matiza.

Source: Zim, Zambia sign four MoUs (24/10/2018)

See Also

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (11th October 2017) Zim engages Zambia on one border post.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (25th October 2018) Zim, Zambia sign four MoUs.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (28th January 2019) Land Shortage Hits Zimra’s Victoria Falls Border Project.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (8th February 2019) Zimbabwe and Zambia to set up one-stop border post in Victoria Falls.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (15th March 2024) Zim, Zambia broaden cooperation.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (14th November 2025) Zimbabwe Extends Victoria Falls Border Post Hours To 24/7.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (15th November 2025) Mnangagwa, Hichilema co-chair Zimbabwe-Zambia BNC.

Vic Falls: Black market fuel hub

ARRESTS and prosecutions are not enough deterrent factors for illegal fuel dealers and the law has somehow failed to curb the vice.

It is a risky and fast business for Victoria Falls’ Mbongeni Dube (29) and his peers who call it a “permanent” job and are ready to die for it.

The residents too, have a huge appetite for the market mainly the taxi drivers as they claim that the precious liquid smuggled through our porous borders is purer than the local one.

Some of the smuggled fuel is sold on the streets, bush and houses in the high-density suburbs of Victoria Falls, while some finds its way to Hwange, 100km away.

“It is a risky trade; people have lost lives and property after smuggled fuel went up in smoke, but what can we do when they are no jobs,” Dube quizzed.

“It’s survival of the fittest and we are always ready for anything and day in, day out, law enforcement is after us, but we find a way to get away,” said Dube who plies his trade in the cover of the bush along Kazungula road.

“We are many of us and we give ourselves a target of about 3 500 litres minimum per week and it is paying off. We buy our fuel in Kazungula [Zambia] or Kasane [Botswana] and we find a way of smuggling it into the country through ungazzeted points in small gallons. It is not easy though, but one has to find means to survive,” another fuel dealer added.

“Upon arrival, we sell it in gallons, for example five litres goes for $7,50 cash and $10 when fuel stations are dry. We prefer Botswana fuel over Zambia because it is cheap. A litre goes for less than 80 pula while local fuel stations, like Zuva, sell a litre for $1,47 and Petrotrade for $1,42, so we make a lot of profit and we now have our regular clients,” Clive Chitsa explained.

A survey revealed that many local taxi drivers prefer black market fuel which they top up on credit and claim it does not damage their cars.

However some said they no longer trust, the dealers as they also sold ethanol-blended fuel.

“They only want cash and buying from a garage ends up better and we have realised that these people top up at service stations then lie to us that the liquid is pure. So it is a win-lose situation, but they always come in handy when there are fuel shortages in town like last week,” Macloud said.

According to the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority, smuggled fuel costs the country over $1 billion in undeclared levies.

In 2017, Zimbabwe and the Botswana Defence Forces officials launched a joint operation to curb the smuggling of fuel from the neighbouring country, but unregistered fuel dealers still evade arrest.

Fuel supplies have been dwindling in the country, with government officials blaming foreign currency shortages.

Source:  Vic Falls: Black market fuel hub (01/06/18)

Vehicle Toll Fees for Victoria Falls Bridge

VICTORIA FALLS, December 15 (The Source) – Vehicles using the Victoria Falls bridge between Zimbabwe and Zambia will have to pay up to $30 in toll fees from next year, as the two countries say they need to raise funds to maintain the facility.

The two neighbours share the 110 year old bridge, whose maintenance is carried out by the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) and Zambia Railways (ZR).

In a statement, issued on Friday the Emerged Railways Properties, a joint company owned by NRZ and ZR said the toll fees will come into effect from January 1.

“Following the enactment of Statutory Instrument 171 of 2012 in terms of Section 6 of the Toll Roads Act (Chapter 13:13) published in the government gazette dated 2 November 2012, all motorists traversing the Zambia-Zimbabwe border of Victoria Falls are hereby notified the Emerged Railways Properties will commence the collection of Toll Fees for the use of the Victoria Falls Bridge effective 1 January 2017,” the statement reads.

The Road Transport and Safety Agency (RATSA) will collect the fees on behalf of the two governments at the two border posts and entry points to the bridge.

Haulage trucks will pay $30 while buses and mini buses which are mostly used by tour operators on a daily basis will fork out $7 and $5 per entry respectively.

Heavy vehicles will part with $10 while taxis and small vehicles below two tonnes will be exempted, according to the statement.

The bridge, said ERP in the statement, is key to the socio-economic life of both countries as well as the SADC region hence the need for regular maintenance for it to cope with increasing levels of traffic.

“It is against this background that the government of Zambia and Zimbabwe have resolved to put in place the requisite legal instrument for the tolling of the bridge.

The Victoria Falls toll fees will be used specifically for the refurbishment and maintenance of the bridge in order to guarantee its long term existence.”

The bridge was constructed in 1905 by the Cleveland Bridge and Engineering Company and is the gateway to the Sadc region.

Source: Zimbabwe, Zambia introduce toll fees for Victoria Falls Bridge (15/12/17)