Recent incidents, including high-profile cases of smuggling, illegal crossings and delays in customs processing, have highlighted vulnerabilities that officials are keen to address; in response to escalating challenges at key border points, South Africa has announced plans to strengthen border control measures, aiming to better manage security, immigration and trade flows. As cross-border movement intensifies, especially along routes connecting South Africa to its neighbouring countries, government agencies are collaborating to enhance surveillance, deploy more personnel and introduce advanced technology to secure the nation’s borders more effectively.

Officials argue that stricter border management will not only curb illegal activities but also streamline legal trade and travel, ultimately strengthening national security. To further unpack we are joined on the line by Daniel du Plessis, Marketing and Communication Director at Milkor