Beitbridge solutions demand buy-in from both border authorities

Customs modernisation, while not yet fully implemented at the ports in the country, has gone a long way to increasing efficiency and speeding up processes when crossing borders, according to Glynn Crowther, Transmart exports manager. “While there are still a number of manual processes in place – these are a slip in an otherwise well-oiled cog.” Crowther said the full introduction of the Customs modernisation programme at the ports would continue to impact positively. “The sheer volume of trucks and cargo moving through the border posts tends to overwhelm the controlling authorities at times, especially with the manual processes. By comparison though, the sheer lack of plausible infrastructure and the palpable apathy of their counterparts across the Limpopo grossly outweigh any of South Africa’s border shortcomings.” And herein lies one of the biggest challenges when addressing cross-border operations, in his view. Unless all countries upgrade their infrastructure and integrate their systems, delays will continue to be a daily reality. “Beitbridge has for many years proved to be an exceptional challenge to all transporters, exporters and importers alike – and for all the wrong reasons. If ever there was a need for a fully integrated One-Stop Border facility, then by far Beitbridge needs to become that facility,” said Crowther. “You can introduce the most basic of systems and procedures, incorporate modern equipment and communication tools, provide the training and develop skills – but without a substantial and deliberate work ethic, you achieve nothing. Working through the quagmire that is Beitbridge is exceptionally challenging. All of this must be addressed to change the situation.” Even more so, said Crowther, in light of the fact that there are endless opportunities in Zimbabwe. “Zimbabwe is not a dead country and there is enormous growth potential in spite of some misgivings and the negative sentiment.” According to Crowther, not only is Transmart planning to increase its volumes into Zimbabwe but it is also, in the mid- to long-term, looking to provide a fast and efficient service further afield. CAPTION Glynn Crowther … ‘Without a substantial and deliberate work ethic, you achieve nothing.’