April marks one year since the establishment of South Africa’s Border Management Authority (BMA). The entity is working hard to tackle security threats, streamline migration processes, enhance safety measures, alleviate congestion and mitigate long transit times at the nation’s borders, and this work is gaining momentum. Now, the BMA is intensifying its efforts to stimulate trade activities across the region. Freight News feature editor Liesl Venter spoke to BMA commissioner and CEO Dr Mike Masiapato to find out more.LV: The notion of consolidating border management under a single authority faced initial resistance; not everyone was convinced it was the right approach. However, since the BMA became operational from 1 April last year, there appears to have been a notable turnaround.MM: Initially, there was uncertainty and even some anxiety about the entity, its purpose and the government’s intentions behind it. We have invested significant time engaging with the private sector to ensure clear communication about the BMA’s mandate and role. Throughout this first year, we have actively reached out to freight forwarders and other stakeholders to ensure that businesses grasp the functions and objectives of the BMA. In just a few months, we’ve made considerable progress and there is now a much greater sense of certainty.LV: What factors do you believe have played a role in the BMA’s relatively swift establishment?MM: Undoubtedly, our approach of not just managing this from the top down has been pivotal. We have dedicated significant time on the ground witnessing border operations at first hand, understanding challenges, and brainstorming solutions. Additionally, our continuous collaboration and dialogue with the private sector has played a crucial role. By actively seeking their input, we’ve been able to address their needs effectively and ensure the delivery of viable solutions. An example of this is at the Lebombo border post between South Africa and Mozambique: persistent congestion had been causing delays and increasing costs. In response, we partnered with the SA Revenue Service (Sars) to implement a joint processing system under canopies on a bypass at the border post. This innovation streamlined truck movement by allowing officials to process trucks without drivers needing to disembark. By bringing the processing directly to the trucks, rather than having drivers navigate various buildings for cargo clearance and immigration, we have significantly reduced truck turnaround times.LV: Having visited various border posts and observed the challenges at first hand, what approach do you suggest for addressing ongoing issues such as delays and congestion at our borders?MM: It's crucial to recognise that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for the challenges at border posts. Each post differs in layout, infrastructure and volume of traffic, making it essential to tailor solutions accordingly. Central to finding these solutions is the understanding that addressing issues cannot be done solely from an office in Pretoria. Over the past year, we have prioritised on-site visits to border posts so as to gain insights into their unique layouts and identify infrastructure gaps. Our approach emphasises addressing problems directly from the ground. Take, for instance, the customs solution implemented at Lebombo; it underscores the need for innovation, collaboration and location-specific solutions.LV: What plans do you have moving forward?MM: Border posts cannot be treated as isolated entities; a corridor approach is essential for effective trade facilitation. This means considering the entire route, not just the individual border points. Regarding border posts specifically, the first step is addressing infrastructure to create environments conducive for lawful trade while curbing illicit activities. South Africa’s ports of entry, originally designed for security during apartheid, now need revamping to facilitate regional and international trade more effectively. To achieve this, we have initiated requests for proposals for the redesign and development of six ports: Beitbridge, Lebombo, Maseru Bridge, Ficksburg, Kopfontein and Oshoek. Through this initiative, we aim to enhance cross-border movement efficiency, promote regional economic integration, and provide better support for the African Continental Free Trade A rea .LV: Do you think that establishing a single entity for industry to engage with, rather than multiple government agencies, will significantly streamline border operations?MM: It already has. The approach of contextual collaboration is making a major difference at our ports. We have moved from a multi-agency approach to being far more integrated, consolidating various departments under one roof. This shift has not only enhanced accountability but also eliminated the need for industry to navigate multiple agencies at border posts. With the port commander taking charge, leadership and accountability have become more streamlined, addressing issues promptly. The BMA has undeniably brought stability and certainty to border posts, and we remain committed to making further strides moving forward.
