Borders Besieged: South Africa’s Porous Ports of Entry Under Pressure

South Africa – The country’s northern border with Zimbabwe is facing increasing pressure as staff shortages, lack of fencing, and sophisticated smuggling networks leave ports of entry dangerously exposed.

Beitbridge: A Vulnerable Gateway

At Beitbridge, South Africa’s busiest border post, the Limpopo River serves as the only barrier between the two countries. With stretches of destroyed fencing, the area is highly vulnerable to illegal crossings and smuggling operations.

Beitbridge port commander Ntakuseni Lambani said:

“Because the fencing is destroyed, the river becomes our force multiplier of some sort. Once the river is dry, this place becomes busy with crossings and movement of goods. Both countries are losing revenue out of this because people are not declaring their goods.”

Authorities report that smuggling syndicates have perfected their operations, using makeshift boats to ferry people and goods, often with taxis waiting nearby to transport them further into South Africa.

Staffing Challenges Hamper Border Security

The Border Management Authority (BMA), responsible for securing South Africa’s 71 official ports of entry, is struggling with severe staff shortages.

Oshoek acting port commander Sibusiso Mahlangu explained:

“We are struggling to properly man all the vulnerable segments within the ports. We need 11,000 officials, but currently have just 2,000 on the ground.”

Despite these challenges, officials report ongoing interceptions of stolen vehicles, drugs, and other contraband.

Regional Threats and Response Plans

Vulnerabilities extend beyond Beitbridge. Borders with Eswatini and Mozambique are also hotspots for organised crime, including human trafficking, drug smuggling, cross-border car theft, illegal mining, and arms trafficking.

To strengthen border security, the Transport Department plans to install a toll plaza near Beitbridge, while the BMA is exploring drones and advanced monitoring technologies for high-risk areas.

Officials warn that without urgent reinforcement and infrastructure upgrades, South Africa’s borders will remain a prime target for syndicates, posing national and regional security risks.