Published: 2 hours ago

The South African government has begun consultations with stakeholders on introducing toll fees for vehicles entering its territory via the Beitbridge Border Post, as part of a broader border operations realignment.

Currently, toll fees are only collected on the Zimbabwean side, but under the new plan, South Africa will levy fees on southbound traffic entering the country. Zimbabwe will continue collecting tolls for northbound traffic.

The initiative is linked to Zimbabwe's 2014 takeover of the New Limpopo Bridge following the expiry of a 20-year Build, Operate and Transfer agreement. South Africa's National Road Agency Limited (SANRAL) is leading the rollout, with public consultations already underway and another session planned for October 17.

"The intent to toll was approved by the Minister of Transport and published in Government Gazette No 53178 on 15 August 2025," SANRAL spokesperson Lwando Mahlasela confirmed.

Revenue from the tolls will fund a new third freight bridge, a modern border processing facility under the Smart Border initiative, and ongoing maintenance of roads and bridges. SANRAL said the system will also reduce congestion, minimise fuel wastage, and ensure predictable transit times through dedicated lanes for freight, light vehicles, and passengers.

The Beitbridge Border Post, handling over 14,000 people and 6,000 vehicles daily at peak times, is a key trade corridor linking South Africa with the Southern African Development Community (SADC). The Zimbabwean side underwent a US$300 million upgrade in 2021, improving traffic flow and efficiency.

SANRAL emphasized that stakeholder engagement will continue, involving border users, state agencies, provincial departments, and municipalities to ensure smooth implementation of the new tolling system.
- BD