Modernised Kasambabezi Border Post Set to Boost Zimbabwe-Zambia Trade and Tourism

By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times

BINGA – The opening of the modernised Kasambabezi Border Post in Binga District has been hailed as a major step towards strengthening trade, tourism and regional integration between Zimbabwe and Zambia, with government officials describing the facility as a catalyst for economic growth under Vision 2030. The upgraded border post is expected to improve the movement of people and goods, promote formal cross-border trade and create new business opportunities for communities on both sides of the Zambezi River.

Speaking during the commissioning of the facility, Matabeleland North Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Richard Moyo said the project demonstrates the Second Republic's commitment to improving regional connectivity and expanding economic cooperation.

"Decades after Independence, the New Dispensation has transformed what was once an informal crossing into a fully fledged border post, creating a seamless gateway between Zimbabwe and Zambia," Moyo said.

He said the project aligns with Zimbabwe's foreign policy of maintaining friendly relations with neighbouring countries while supporting regional economic integration.

"Guided by the national foreign policy principle that Zimbabwe is a friend to all and an enemy to none, the development is expected to unlock new markets, promote formal cross-border trade and deepen economic cooperation with neighbouring countries."

Moyo said the new border post would significantly reduce travel time and transport costs for residents of Binga, who previously had to travel through Victoria Falls to cross legally into Zambia.

"Previously, travellers from Binga were forced to travel approximately 320 kilometres via Victoria Falls to access Zambia through formal channels. Today, the distance has been reduced to less than 500 metres across the border, significantly cutting travel time and costs while creating new opportunities in commerce, tourism and public boat transport."

Binga District Development Coordinator Land Kabome said the new border post positions the district to benefit from increased tourism, investment and cross-border commerce. He highlighted Binga's tourism attractions, including Lake Kariba's sandy beaches and the cultural heritage of the BaTonga people, which he said could attract more domestic and international visitors.

"The development showcases Binga's immense tourism potential, including Zimbabwe's largest sandy beach along Lake Kariba and the rich cultural heritage of the BaTonga people, positioning the district as an emerging regional tourism and investment destination."

ZANU-PF Matabeleland North Secretary for Information and Publicity Daniel Sithole said the border post reflects the Government's commitment to ensuring equitable development across the country.

"The commissioning of the modern Kasambabezi Border Post is a clear demonstration of the Second Republic's commitment to inclusive development and ensuring that no community is left behind."

Sithole also announced that construction of a new Registry Office in Binga is now 95 percent complete, bringing key government services including birth registration, national identity documents and passport processing closer to residents.

He expressed optimism that the long-awaited rehabilitation of the Binga Road would also be prioritised under the Government's infrastructure development programme. Government has also rolled out climate resilience and livelihood projects in the district, including the establishment of four Village Business Units and the rehabilitation of the Simatelele Irrigation Scheme, initiatives aimed at improving food security, increasing household incomes and supporting Zimbabwe's goal of attaining upper middle-income economy status by 2030.

Kasambabezi Border Post