The Government has commissioned an upgraded Mphoengs Border Post following a USD20,000 refurbishment led by the Department of Immigration to strengthen border infrastructure and service delivery.
The project forms part of ongoing efforts to modernise ports of entry and enhance operational efficiency.
Located about 96 kilometres south-east of Plumtree in Mangwe District, Matabeleland South Province, the border post was established in 1998 as a satellite facility serving communities on both sides of the Zimbabwe–Botswana border.
It underwent an earlier phase of modernisation in 2003, two years after the establishment of the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), as part of initial efforts to improve basic infrastructure and operations.
The latest upgrade, commissioned on Sunday 19 April 2026, represents a comprehensive refurbishment aimed at strengthening efficiency, service delivery and border management systems.
The refurbishment included an internal facelift with ceiling installations, lighting systems, new tiling and improved branding. The roof, which was near collapse, was replaced.
The building was repainted and new signage and billboards were installed to improve navigation within the port.
The Immigration hall was redesigned with partitioned cubicles to streamline traveller processing.
An electronic gate was installed for e-passport holders.
ZIMRA' Station Manager, Mr Eric Maguranyanga, said the upgrade strengthens operational capability at the border post. “This upgrade enhances processing speed, supports smoother movement of travellers and strengthens service delivery in line with evolving border management systems,” he said.
Officiating at the commissioning ceremony, the Deputy Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Honourable Chido Sanyatwe, commended stakeholders and local communities for supporting the upgrade, noting that collaboration remains key to strengthening border infrastructure.
Further improvements are planned, including the construction of a dedicated search bay to enhance inspections, particularly during the rainy season.
The local tradional leader Chief Sangulube urged government to consider flexible arrangements for communities with family ties across the Zimbabwe–Botswana border.
The event was attended by government officials, border agencies, local communities and regional partners, including representatives from Botswana Unified Revenue Service and Botswana Immigration.
ZIMRA’s customs counter was also upgraded, strengthening service delivery and modernising operations at the port of entry.