Will opening a new border post solve the current problems?

by Ndou Paul

08 Jan 2013 at 10:06hrs | Views

Reacting to the abnormally long queues at the Beitbridge border over the past few days, Zimbabwe Education Minister David Coltart suggested that a new border post be considered between the two countries.

In his post Mr Coltart said: "We have to move from talk to urgent action ..... this situation needs a massive, urgent effort by both the South African and Zimbabwean governments. If need be, we should be considering the construction of another road to South Africa - for example, the most direct .... route is south through Kezi .... that road needs to be upgraded and a new border constructed over the Shashi and a road constructed through Botswana direct to, say, Martin's Drift."

The South African Chamber of Commerce & Industry expressed concern but said opening a new border, though a good idea, would not solve the current problems.

Chamber CEO Neren Rau said the idea should be "how to improve road efficiencies that would promote trade and movement of people".

Is this a feasible and good idea? Will this help or its a matter of attitude from officials?