Zimbabwe and Zambia to Install Africa's First Floating Border Markers on Lake Kariba

Zimbabwe and Zambia are preparing to launch a landmark project that will see the installation of Africa's first floating international border buoys on Lake Kariba, a move aimed at clearly defining the shared boundary between the two neighbouring countries. The initiative is expected to eliminate longstanding uncertainty surrounding the lake's international border, a challenge that has for decades led to accidental crossings, disputes, arrests, and tensions involving fishermen, tourism operators, and local communities.

Plans for the project were unveiled during a stakeholder awareness workshop held in Kariba last week, bringing together government officials, surveyors, traditional leaders, fishing communities, and tourism stakeholders. According to officials, installation of the floating markers is expected to commence later this month, with the entire boundary demarcation project scheduled for completion by 2027. The programme is being jointly coordinated by the Surveyor-General's offices of Zimbabwe and Zambia under the framework of the African Union Border Programme, with financial and technical support provided by the German development agency GIZ.

Zimbabwe's Surveyor-General, Edwin Guvaza, said the project is intended to provide a visible and permanent reference point for communities and businesses that rely on Lake Kariba for their livelihoods.

"We have been working on this initiative since 2021 and anticipate completion by 2027. Since the two countries are separated by water, it is important that the boundary is clearly identifiable. The goal is for people to see the border rather than estimate where it is," Guvaza said.

His Zambian counterpart, Calvin Chibangula, said the lack of visible border markers has historically created challenges for fishers and boat operators who sometimes unknowingly cross into foreign waters.

He noted that once the floating boundary markers are installed, local communities will be able to fish, trade, and navigate the lake with greater certainty and reduced risk of legal complications.

"Many people have faced difficulties because the boundary is not clearly visible. The new markers will help eliminate confusion and allow communities to conduct their activities with confidence without fear of accidentally crossing into another country's territory," Chibangula said.

The international boundary on Lake Kariba was formally established in 1963 following the creation of the lake. However, the border has remained largely invisible on the water, making enforcement and compliance difficult for both authorities and lake users. Officials believe the floating buoy system will improve border management, reduce conflicts, strengthen cooperation between the two countries, and enhance safety for the thousands of people who depend on the lake for fishing, tourism, and transport.

Lake Kariba floating border buoys