JOINT MEDIA STATEMENT: STRENGTHENING SOUTH AFRICA–ZIMBABWE COOPERATION ON BORDER MANAGEMENT AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
Pretoria, 23 January 2026: The Border Management Authority (BMA) and the Department of Social Development (DSD) participated in a high-level diplomatic engagement at the Embassy of the Republic of Zimbabwe in Arcadia, Pretoria, on 21 January 2026, marking the official introduction of the newly appointed Embassy representative, Mr Lovemore Mazemo. The engagement, held as a meet-and-greet session, brought together representatives from the BMA, the DSD and the Zimbabwean Embassy, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing cooperation between South Africa and Zimbabwe on border management, social development, travel and immigration-related matters.
Discussions focused on critical cross-border social protection challenges, particularly the handling and safeguarding of unaccompanied minors who cross through the Beitbridge Port of Entry without the requisite travel documentation. The meeting also addressed broader concerns related to irregular cross-border movements by adults, including cases where individuals possess valid passports but deliberately avoid entering through designated ports of entry. The engagement builds on the Memorandum of Understanding signed in December 2025 between the Minister of Social Development, Ms Nokuzola Sisisi Tolashe, and her Zimbabwean counterpart, which provides a formal framework for cooperation on social development priorities, child protection and cross-border coordination.
The Commissioner of the Border Management Authority, Dr Michael Masiapato, reaffirmed that the BMA and Zimbabwean border management authorities continue to work closely and effectively together and assured the Embassy of continuity in cooperative border management efforts between the two countries. He emphasised the importance of tackling common challenges collectively and noted that the meeting explored areas of collaboration to raise awareness on migration issues affecting travellers, with the objective of improving compliance with immigration requirements. Embassy representative, Mr Mazemo, expressed appreciation for the commitment shown by both the BMA and the DSD in addressing the increase in cases involving unaccompanied minors. He indicated that the Embassy was encouraged by the seriousness with which the issue is being handled and confirmed that Zimbabwean authorities are equally committed to addressing the matter.
He further highlighted the value of joint awareness campaigns targeted at specific traveller groups to ensure that travellers are well informed about the travel regulations of both countries. The meeting underscored the importance of sustained dialogue, collaboration and integrated approaches to addressing migration challenges in the Southern African region, particularly through enhanced information sharing, joint public awareness initiatives and proactive stakeholder engagements with key role players such as transport operators, parents and guardians.
The parties further agreed on the establishment of a joint technical task team to proactively address operational and policy issues related to cross-border movements, with a particular focus on the protection of minors. The engagement concluded with a shared commitment to continued cooperation and regular engagement between the two countries. The Zimbabwean Embassy also conveyed its condolences to the Government and people of South Africa following the recent school transport tragedy involving learners.
Media enquiries may be forwarded to:
Acting Head of Communication at the Department of Social Development, Ms. Sandy Godlwana on 082 678 5634 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Executive Manager: Communications and Stakeholder Management at the Border Management Authority, Ms. Mmemme Mogotsi on 0728564288 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
