The committee on Tuesday visited Beitbridge in response to the challenges faced at this port of entry from the beginning of the festive season.
On
The committee expressed concern at the slow progress in implementing this policy position.
"To alleviate the perpetual crisis at this border, the government must move with speed to implement an already agreed policy position to establish a
The efficiency of movement of people and goods is critical to achieving the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement. In addition, the
The committee believes that the BMA will be an added force in handling the high volume of people and goods at the port of entry.
"The agency will also solve the challenge of various departments that operate in silos and will impact on the general operation at the port of entry," said Bongo.
The committee said there was inadequate planning, especially considering the different health requirements in
The committee believes that, had there been adequate plans in place, the increased truck volume would have been anticipated at Beitbridge.
Despite this, the committee welcomed the interventions by the South African government in resolving some of these challenges that were encountered.
What is needed in the short to medium terms, the committee said, is to ensure that some of those solutions are strengthened while awaiting for the implementation of the
The committee also appreciates the work done by the officials of the different government departments under extremely difficult and stressful circumstances.
Meanwhile, the committee welcomed the decision by
The committee also recommends the increased presence of the
The committee is expected to visit the Lebombo and Mbuzini borders on Thursday to assess the implementation of interventions to alleviate congestion.
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