While regional integration between governments in southern Africa has improved significantly over the past decade, having a clearance team on the ground at border posts is a gamechanger. That’s the view of Willnes Eybers, manager of GoBorders, which offers a complete cross-border clearing solution for all cargo moving between South Africa and Namibia. “Clearing cargo through southern African border posts can be very challenging. Long delays are still experienced and this can have a major impact on certain commodities that cannot afford the waiting times.” GoBorders, part of the GoGlobal group of companies, was established to address ongoing border delays. “The company was very involved in the movement of Namibian grapes from the Aussenkehr Valley to South Africa for export. Long waiting times at the border affected the quality of the perishable product,” explains Eybers. “Looking into the situation it became apparent that much could be achieved by having a physical presence at the border post to deal with the various customs clearing issues that were arising.” The result was GoBorders. “We have our own offices on both sides of the borders at Noordoewer/ Ariamsvlei and at Viooldrif/ Nakop,” says Eybers. “This ensures a handson approach.” According to Eybers plans are under way to extend this service to border posts in Botswana and Zimbabwe within the next few months. “What is also important is that our service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We handle border requirements and resolve problems as and when they arise and not when the offices are open.” An important part of efficiency is having the right systems that speak to the various border authorities. “We are electronically linked with the relevant customs authorities,” he says. The company was very involved in the movement of Namibian grapes from the Aussenkehr Valley to South Africa. – Willnes Eybers
