Transport operators are now required to submit a full list of people and goods to the Zimbabwe border authorities at least three hours ahead of the vehicle reaching the border post.

The new regulations, announced by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra), were implemented in an effort to expedite the movement of goods and travellers at the country’s ports of entry.

Zimra said operators carrying passengers for commercial reasons needed to submit, amongst others, declaration forms, Customs Road Manifest (Form 1) and other related documents.

“The person in charge of any vehicle, other than a railway train, shall submit a manifest of the passengers, crew and goods being conveyed by the vehicle, signed by the person authorised to sign such manifest at the place of departure for Zimbabwe,” the authority said in a statement.

Safari Association of Zimbabwe’s Dr Emmanuel Anesu Fundira said the system should be complemented by robust information technology systems. “This is a positive development as it will bring order, efficiency and uniformity to border processes.”