Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber has announced a R12.5 billion overhaul of South Africa’s border infrastructure, targeting six high-traffic land ports responsible for more than 80% of the country’s cross-border trade and passenger movement.
The multi-year programme, to be implemented through a public-private partnership, will see the complete demolition and reconstruction of ports at Lebombo (Mozambique), Beitbridge (Zimbabwe), Oshoek (Eswatini), Kopfontein (Botswana), Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg (Lesotho).
Addressing media on Tuesday, Schreiber described the project as the largest single investment ever made by the South African government in border management.
“Today we take the next step on our journey to reform South Africa’s immigration and border management system into a modern, secure, efficient and truly world-class institutional ecosystem,” he said.
The minister said the six ports, which represent 11% of South Africa’s 53 land ports of entry, generate roughly 80% of traffic volume and likely a similar proportion of illicit activity.
Schreiber said ageing infrastructure and inefficiencies at the borders have enabled criminal activity, including illegal migration, illicit trade and fraudulent practices that undermine revenue collection and the rule of law.
“Congestion, outdated infrastructure, and fragmented systems have slowed down trade and increased the cost of doing business,” he said.
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The redevelopment will shift border operations from manual and fragmented systems to integrated, technology-driven processes, aimed at reducing delays and improving coordination.
Schreiber said the upgrades would deliver measurable economic benefits, citing studies showing that even a 5% reduction in border clearance time can increase intra-regional exports by around 10%.
“Shorter turnaround times. Reduced congestion. More predictable movement of goods and people. These improvements go directly to the heart of economic growth,” he said.
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The reforms are expected to strengthen enforcement through enhanced surveillance, improved infrastructure and integrated data systems, whilst also boosting revenue collection.
The minister said the project would create jobs and improve the daily experience for travellers through shorter queues, lower costs and more reliable movement of goods.
“It means stronger protection against illegal immigration, illicit trade, and criminal activity,” Schreiber said.
He described the initiative as “smart government in action” that would unlock trade and economic growth.
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