Swazi Observer

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ESWATINI URGED TO ACCELERATE JOINT ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION

By NOKUNCEDA MAGAGULA | 2025-01-29

Eswatini should accelerate the implementation of the Joint Action Plan signed with South Africa to minimise border accident impacts.

According to National Trade Facilitation Committee (NTFC) co-chairperson E.Nathi Dlamini, this action plan entails beefing up efficiencies at the border by minimising queues.

He said it also entailed the implementation of a robust infrastructure that would not totally prevent accidents, but minimise their impact.

Dlamini added that the plan included the full implementation and leverage of systems like ASYCUDA, as well as the electronic customs processes to allow for remote processing and clearance of goods.

“Engage regularly with the private sector, including transporters and logistics providers to create collaborative strategies for maintaining trade continuity during disruptions. Furthermore, conduct regular training and drills for border personnel to ensure they are equipped to handle emergencies efficiently,” he said.

From an economic perspective, Dlamini stated that the accident caused significant disruptions to trade as one would expect. He said this was primarily due to the temporary closure of critical lanes for processing customs and border formalities.

“While we worked tirelessly to communicate with traders regarding the available alternatives, ultimately there were some delays, which were unavoidable,” he said.

sympathies
The chairperson said these disruptions had a ripple effect, which included increased costs for businesses and delaying deliveries.

He further expressed deepest sympathies to those affected by the accident, including individuals who were injured. Dlamini said such incidents were a reminder of the importance of prioritising safety for everyone who works at, or passes through, the borders daily.

The chairperson said South African authorities were still conducting their investigations to determine the cause of the accident and did want to speculate unnecessarily.

Dlamini’s comment comes after a truck rammed into 16 vehicles and three buildings at the Oshoek Border Post after the driver lost control of it on Sunday morning.

The truck was descending the N17 hill leading to the border. in its latest statement, the Eswatini Revenue Service (ERS) notified traders that clearance operations at the Ngwenya border had still not resumed.

“Due to the extent of damage to the SARS property caused by the recent accident, we regret to inform our valued clients that commercial clearance operations at Ngwenya Border have not yet resumed,” part of the statement read.

ERS requested that traders use alternative ports for the clearance of goods.
“Further updates will be provided later following additional assessments.

We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your patience and understanding as we work with SARS to resolve the situation,” read the statement.

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