National Assembly Cape of Good Hope Chamber

04 November 2025, Cape Town

Honourable House Chairperson

Members of the Executive

Honourable Members,

Today, we stand on the foundation of a bold vision to build borders that are not just lines of control, but gateways of opportunity. This vision calls for world- class, efficient, and technology-driven border systems that protect our nation, connect our region, and fuel socio-economic growth. The establishment of the Border Management Authority, through the Border Management Authority Act of 2020, was a powerful declaration of intent and a commitment by the State to secure our borders while unlocking their full potential for national development.

Chairperson,

Across our nation’s busiest land ports of entry, the heartbeat of regional trade and movement can be felt every day. Yet, the very success of this high-volume commercial activity has also revealed its greatest challenge. Congestion, long queues, and delays at our ports have become barriers that hold back the free flow of goods, people, and opportunities that drive growth in South Africa and across our region.

Modernising our land ports is therefore not just a strategic priority; it is an economic imperative. As the movement of people, goods, and vehicles between South Africa and her neighbours continues to expand, we had to rethink how our ports operate by embracing smarter systems, faster processes, and stronger partnerships to keep trade and travel moving efficiently and securely. 

The challenge before us is clear: the long delays at our major land ports have real and far-reaching consequences. They slow down our manufacturing and mining sectors, strain agriculture and tourism, and increase the cost of doing business. More than that, they weaken our ability to manage our borders with the security, efficiency, and dignity that our people and our neighbours deserve.

To overcome these long-standing challenges, we are advancing the implementation of the One-Stop Border Post, model which is a transformative approach that will redefine how our land ports operate.

The OSBP concept brings together the legal frameworks, institutional arrangements, infrastructure, and streamlined procedures that allow goods, people, and vehicles to stop once at a single, integrated facility to complete all necessary exit and entry checks. In this model, neighbouring states work side by side, applying their respective laws in one coordinated process.

This stands in sharp contrast to the old, two-stop system where travellers and traders were required to clear exit procedures in one country and then repeat the process just across the border. That duplication wasted time, increased costs, and creates bottlenecks.

The One-Stop Border Post offers a smarter, more efficient solution. Under negotiated bilateral agreements, officials from both countries operate together in a Common Control Zone, applying harmonised procedures that are secure, simplified, and seamless. This cooperation strengthens each nation’s ability to manage its borders effectively, while facilitating trade, travel, and trust across the region. 

Chairperson,

It is important to emphasise that the establishment of a One-Stop Border Post does not alter our international boundaries or compromise the sovereignty of the Republic. Instead, it represents a practical partnership between neighbouring states, one built on trust, mutual respect, and shared prosperity.

To make this collaboration work effectively, enabling legislation is essential. Such laws must clearly define which national laws apply within the One-Stop Border Post area, and empower officials from both countries to enforce their respective mandates within the Common Control Zone, all while operating on the territory of the adjoining state in a structured and lawful manner.

This is precisely the purpose of the One-Stop Border Post Bill of 2024. The Bill provides the legal foundation for establishing and managing One-Stop Border Posts between South Africa and her neighbours, giving effect to the policy approved by Cabinet in March 2022. It sets out the framework for international agreements, the creation of common control zones, and the coordination of border procedures, ensuring that the laws of both states can be applied seamlessly and securely within a shared operational space.

By adopting this Bill, South Africa will take a decisive step toward seamless, smart, and secure borders, that facilitate trade and movement rather than hinder them.

Chairperson,

There are several benefits that will be realised as we implement the OSBP concept. They include:

• Improved trade efficiency, and lower freight costs will boost competitiveness and facilitate national and regional economic growth;

• It will remove blockages in strategic trade corridors which will greatly facilitate the expansion of South African intra-African trade and integration into the global economy;

• The One Stop Boarder Post’s will in future contribute to improved regional integration by enabling goods and people to move swiftly within SADC and the continent as a whole.

• OSBPs are key in supporting the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in achieving one of its aims of creating a single market for goods and services facilitated by movement of persons to intensify economic integration in Africa.

The African Continental Free Trade Area and One Stop Boarder Post’s are interconnected initiatives for promoting trade and integration in Africa. According to the African Import Export Bank The African Continental Free Trade Area if properly managed can create a $3.4 Trillion Trade Block boosting intra Africa trade by more than 50%.

• Therefore, The African Continental Free Trade Area and One Stop Boarder Posts are complementary, with the success of the African Continental Free Trade Area depending on the efficient implementation of tools like One Stop Boarder Post’s to foster economic growth and development for Africa.

Chairperson,

As we look to the future, I extend a sincere invitation to all Honourable Members across every bench and every party to lend their support to this vital Bill. Let us move forward together in strengthening our borders, advancing our economy, and deepening regional cooperation. 

By endorsing this Bill, we affirm a shared vision: a South Africa that is secure, connected, and open for progress. Let us unite in this effort, for the benefit of our nation and the generations to come.

I thank you. 

ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF HOME AFFAIRS