Government has extended operating hours at the Victoria Falls Border Post to a 24-hour schedule, a development expected to boost tourism, trade and cross-border travel. The announcement was made through a statutory notice issued yesterday by the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage.
According to the notice, the extension was effected in terms of section 41 of the Immigration Act [Chapter 4:02] and takes effect immediately. This means travellers and commercial traffic can now pass through the busy port of entry at any time of the day, significantly easing movement between Zimbabwe and Zambia.
Secretary for Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Ambassador R.T. Faranisi, said the decision reflects Government’s commitment to improving efficiency at major ports of entry and strengthening Zimbabwe’s position as a regional hub.
“The Ministry has extended the operating hours for the Victoria Falls Border Post to twenty-four hours a day with immediate effect.
This measure is meant to enhance cross-border facilitation, promote tourism and support economic activities linked to the Victoria Falls corridor,” he said
He added that Government agencies stationed at the border, including Immigration, ZIMRA, security services and health authorities, had been directed to adjust operations to ensure seamless around-the-clock service.
The announcement has been received positively by travellers, tourism operators and residents of Victoria Falls, who say the move will stimulate economic activity and reduce congestion during peak hours.
Local tour operator Tinashe Moyo said 24-hour operations would make the city more accessible to international tourists.
“This is long overdue. Tourists often arrive late, especially those connecting from long-haul flights. A 24-hour border gives us flexibility and improves the overall visitor experience,” he said.
Cross-border trader Ruth Dube, who frequently travels between Livingstone and Victoria Falls, applauded the Government, saying the extension will ease travel pressure.
“Sometimes we would get stuck on the Zambian side when the border closed early. This change is a relief for many of us who rely on daily cross-border movement,” she said.
Residents have also welcomed the development. Victoria Falls Youth Chairperson Brian Nyoni said round-the-clock access would support local businesses.
“Shuttle operators, hotels and vendors will all benefit. This is a progressive step that aligns with the city’s growth as an international destination,” he said.
The extension positions the Victoria Falls Border Post as one of the region’s key transit points, complementing efforts to modernise border infrastructure and enhance Zimbabwe’s competitiveness in tourism and trade.
