Forbes Border Post upgrade project approved

Cabinet has approved a public-private partnership (PPP) between the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development and the Forbes Border Consortium, ushering in a new phase of modernisation for Forbes Border Post in Manicaland Province.

The decision was presented to Cabinet by Professor Mthuli Ncube, Minister of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion, who also chairs the Public-Private Partnerships Committee. The modernisation initiative is expected to significantly enhance the infrastructure and operations of one of Zimbabwe's busiest border posts.

Speaking during a post-Cabinet media briefing, Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr. Jenfan Muswere emphasized the government's commitment to modernising the country's ports of entry as part of the Second Republic's development agenda. He confirmed that the Forbes Border Consortium has been contracted to upgrade and modernise Forbes Border Post, marking the commencement of the second phase of the project.

"The Forbes Border Consortium has been contracted by the Government of Zimbabwe for the upgrading and modernisation of Forbes Border Post in Manicaland Province," Dr. Muswere said. "This is a crucial step in the government's ongoing efforts to enhance the functionality of key national entry points."

The second phase follows a comprehensive feasibility study conducted by the consortium, which was validated by the government, paving the way for implementation under a design, build, finance, operate, and maintain framework.

Dr. Muswere noted that the project's financing strategy aligns with the government's goal to foster a private sector-driven economy while alleviating fiscal pressures. The model includes private sector investment in exchange for revenue generated through royalty payments over the lifespan of the project.

"The scope of the project includes renovation of existing border post buildings and infrastructure, the construction of new facilities such as weighbridges, roads, parking lots, and staff houses, as well as the enhancement of Information Communication Technology (ICT) systems and traffic processing systems," he said.

The modernisation is also expected to improve operational efficiency at the border post by integrating cutting-edge technology to streamline traffic management and customs operations.

Dr. Muswere further explained that the upgrades will benefit Zimbabwe economically by improving the flow of goods and services through the Beira corridor, which serves as a major transit link for the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. The modernisation will also position Zimbabwe to better capitalize on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by enabling more efficient cross-border trade.

"With these improvements, we anticipate an increase in Treasury collections, better monitoring, and enhanced capacity for customs procedures," he said. "The project will also bolster security and improve efficiency for transporters, positioning Zimbabwe as a more competitive player in regional trade."

The modernisation of Forbes Border Post is expected to contribute to stronger regional connectivity and trade, while boosting the country's infrastructure development efforts. The project will continue to receive significant attention as it progresses, with hopes of spurring further investments in Zimbabwe's transport and logistics sector.