By 
Zimbabwe has introduced an online immigration system aimed at easing congestion at border posts and international airports, enhancing efficiency, and curbing illegal activities such as human trafficking, drug smuggling, and money laundering.
The system allows travelers with e-passports to scan their documents and provide facial or fingerprint data for swift, contactless entry or exit. Ambassador Raphael Faranisi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, confirmed plans to expand the system to key locations, including Victoria Falls, Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport, and the Beitbridge Border Post.
Faranisi explained that the e-gates are self-service automated barriers that verify the identity of passport holders by cross-referencing the biometric data stored in their passports with a photo or fingerprint captured at the gate. If the biometric data matches and the traveler has no outstanding offences, they are allowed to proceed.
“E-gates, as part of our broader online border management system, are designed to reduce cross-border crimes, particularly human trafficking, drug smuggling, and money laundering,” Faranisi stated.
In August 2024, Kazembe Kazembe, the Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, announced that the Ministry’s integrated computerized system—encompassing the civil registry, Zimbabwe Republic Police, and Immigration Department—will be rolled out at all border posts by the end of the year.
Zimbabwe began issuing e-passports in 2021 and has continued to enhance the system. Recently, the country announced plans to establish three e-passport centers in Zambia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This follows the successful trial of an e-passport office at the Zimbabwe Consulate in Johannesburg, South Africa. These advancements are part of Zimbabwe’s ongoing efforts to modernize its immigration infrastructure and improve border security.
Comments