SA, Zimbabwe embassy meet to strengthen border management

South Africa's Border Management Authority (BMA) and the Department of Social Development (DSD) on Wednesday participated in a high-level diplomatic engagement with the Zimbabwean Embassy in Pretoria, aimed at strengthening bilateral co-operation on border management and social development issues.

The engagement comes amid tightened controls at the Beitbridge border post by authorities in both countries, particularly during major public holidays, in an effort to curb child smuggling and other forms of irregular cross-border movement.

Held as a meet-and-greet session, the engagement brought together representatives from the BMA, the DSD and the Zimbabwean Embassy. In a joint statement released on Thursday, the two South African departments said discussions focused on critical cross-border social protection challenges, with particular emphasis on the handling and safeguarding of unaccompanied minors crossing through the Beitbridge Port of Entry without the required travel documentation.

"The meeting also addressed broader concerns related to irregular cross-border movements by adults, including instances where individuals possess valid passports but deliberately avoid entering through designated ports of entry," the statement said.

The departments noted that the engagement builds on a Memorandum of Understanding signed in December 2025 between South Africa's Minister of Social Development, Ms Nokuzola Sisisi Tolashe, and her Zimbabwean counterpart. The agreement provides a formal framework for co-operation on social development priorities, child protection and cross-border co-ordination.

During the meeting, BMA Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato reaffirmed that South African and Zimbabwean border management authorities continue to work closely and effectively together. He assured the Zimbabwean Embassy of continuity in joint border management efforts and stressed the importance of collectively addressing shared challenges.

Dr Masiapato also highlighted the need for collaboration on public awareness initiatives to educate travellers on migration issues and improve compliance with immigration requirements.

According to the joint statement, the Zimbabwean Embassy expressed appreciation for the commitment shown by both the BMA and the DSD in responding to the increase in cases involving unaccompanied minors.

"The Embassy was encouraged by the seriousness with which the matter is being handled and confirmed that Zimbabwean authorities are equally committed to addressing the issue," the statement said.

The Embassy further underscored the importance of joint public awareness campaigns targeting specific traveller groups to ensure that travellers are well informed about the travel regulations of both countries.

The departments said officials from all sides emphasised the need for sustained dialogue, collaboration and integrated approaches to addressing migration challenges in the Southern African region. This includes enhanced information sharing, joint public awareness initiatives and proactive engagement with key stakeholders such as transport operators, parents and guardians.

The parties also agreed to establish a joint technical task team to proactively address operational and policy issues related to cross-border movements, with a particular focus on the protection of minors.

The engagement concluded with a shared commitment to continued co-operation and regular engagement between South Africa and Zimbabwe.

In closing, the Zimbabwean Embassy conveyed its condolences to the Government and people of South Africa following a recent school transport tragedy involving learners, as well as the devastating floods in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape, which resulted in loss of life and significant damage to property.