Yesterday, the Ministry of Home Affairs Principal Secretary Nhlanhla Nxumalo led an Immigration Department delegation in bilateral discussions with counterparts from the South African Border Management Authority (BMA) to explore the potential establishment of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at formalizing community crossing points.
The primary objective of the discussions was to provide a mechanism for control, cooperation, and collaboration between the parties in facilitating the legitimate movement of people and goods, while addressing the challenges faced in managing informal border crossings.
During the meeting, the Commissioner of the Border Management Authority, Mr. Murdock Ramathuba, emphasized the operational nature of the proposed MoU between the BMA and the Eswatini Immigration Department. Mr. Ramathuba stated that the MoU is not political, but rather operational, intended to facilitate dialogue and address the issue of informal border crossings.
One of the notable concerns expressed during the meeting was the potential risk faced by school-going children in the absence of the MoU. Without proper documentation, these children could be at risk of detention or arrest while crossing the border. The MoU seeks to address this issue by promoting a safer and more regulated environment for cross-border travel.
In addition, Mr. Ramathuba strongly advised individuals traveling to South Africa for medical purposes to adhere strictly to the entry requirements. It is crucial to ensure compliance and avoid overstaying the permitted duration of stay. Adhering to these requirements will help prevent unnecessary legal complications and ensure a smooth entry into South Africa for medical purposes.
Nonetheless, both parties openly addressed the challenges associated with informal border crossings and discussed potential solutions. One of the key recommendations that emerged from the discussions was the issuance of special permits for exempted individuals, intended to streamline the process and contribute to more effective border management.
Following the meeting, representatives from both sides expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage in discussions, emphasizing the importance of the dialogue even in the absence of a formal agreement. This sentiment underscores the commitment of both parties to finding common ground and working towards a mutually beneficial arrangement.
The potential MoU between Eswatini and the BMA holds significant promise in addressing the complexities associated with informal border crossings. By formalizing community crossing points and establishing clear protocols, the initiative has the potential to not only improve border security but also facilitate legitimate cross-border activities, ultimately benefiting both countries.
The discussions mark a positive step forward in addressing border management challenges, and it is anticipated that further engagements will lead to tangible progress in the development of a formal agreement between the parties. Besides, the proposed MoU will serve as a framework for regular interaction, cooperation, and joint efforts between the two countries to effectively address the challenges posed by informal crossings.
