By Rex Mphisa
THE Government has extended the operations of the Victoria Falls Border Post to 24 hours with effect from November 13 this year.
In an extraordinary Government Gazzette on Thursday November 13, the same date it became effective, Government announced the decision expected to improve tourist movement and commercial cross-border transactions.
The extension of the operating hours was in line with the Immigration Act (Chapter 4:02) relating to Ports of Entry and Departure.
“It is hereby declared that in terms of section 41 of the Immigration Act [Chapter 4:02], the Minister (of Home Affairs and Heritage) 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.,” said the notice signed by Secretary For Home Affairs Ambassador Raphael Tayerera Faranisi.
Prior to this Victoria Falls border post at the country’s prime resort town home to one of the seven wonders of the world at the Mosi-a-Tunya or Victoria Falls, used tocloseat 10 oclock.
Zambia and Zimbabwe have been in discussions to open both Victoria Falls and Chirundu border posts round the clock intensify efforts to streamline customs and immigration, creating a seamless 24/7 corridor for commerce and human traffic across southern Africa.
Beitbridge, Forbes and Plumtree border posts are already operating round the clock.