New Nakonde Border Post set for commissioning

The first phase of the new Nakonde One Stop Border Post is complete and set for commissioning.

Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Director for Public Infrastructure, Clive Khan, has confirmed to the media in an interview.

“Yes, I can confirm that the first phase of the new Nakonde One Stop Border Post is at 100 percent complete and is waiting for commissioning,” he said.

Mr Khan has indicated that most of the works involved the terminal and the parking area which have been completed, together with the scanner.

He added that the government is hopeful that the new development at the border post will help with the traffic flow among other things.

Truck drivers are happy with the development, saying it is helping a lot in terms of clearance unlike before.

“As drivers we are very much happy with the current government that we have right now. Because looking at this development that they have just brought in, it has helped a lot with decongestion.

“You know this Border has too much traffic with two entries, it will be easy for us to pass without any inconvenience. We really thank the President of Zambia, Mr Hakainde Hichilema Hichilema,” said Mr Chanda Katembula.

Hamza Kibwana, a truck driver from Tanzania, also expressed gratitude and joy at the development.

Mr Kibwana said he is happy that now the clearing of trucks at the border is more efficient than before.

“I am very happy with this development. At least now we won’t be waiting for long hours to be cleared. It is a very good move,” he said.

Omari Maneva, another truck driver from Tanzania thanked the Zambian government for the new infrastructure.

Mr Maneva said he is happy with the new facilities installed at the infrastructure, himself and other truck drivers will no longer be staying for hours at the border.

“The old scanner is slow, the new one is better because it is faster,” he stated.

The newly upgraded Nakonde One Stop Border Post is among others expected to improve customs clearance, efficiency, reduce trade costs and enhance Zambia’s connectivity to regional and global markets.