National News

Residents hail Songwe one-stop border post

 Residents in Karonga District have expressed excitement with the construction of Songwe One-Stop Border Post, saying it will ease cross-border trade.

In an interview on Saturday, a businessperson Zondani Mbale said the post will reduce logistical challenges since all crucial services will be in one place.

The Songwe One-Stop Border Post under construction . | Patience Harawa, Mana

He said: “There are many people in Karonga and the Northern Region who go to Tanzania to buy goods.

“Most of the time we delay to get our goods and services cleared at the border because we have to go to different offices to get clearances.”

Ministry of Trade and Industry Principal Secretary Christina Zakeyo, who visited the construction site on Thursday, said the Songwe One-Stop Border Post will boost trade and economic growth in the region.

“The project is critical to the economic prospects of the country as it will enhance customs and immigration procedures by reducing clearance times and increasing revenue collection,” she said.

Zakeyo said the facilities are expected to be completed by July this year.

“Once completed, the post will have modern facilities, including modern customs and Immigration offices, warehouses and parking areas. These facilities will help maximise revenue generation for the country while facilitating trade,” she added.

Roads Authority project coordinator Ntchindi Mkandawire said the project delayed due to challenges, including mobilisation of materials, prolonged rainy season and designs and spatial constraints at the border site.

He said: “These challenges have led to delays and cost overruns, requiring the project team to adapt and implement creative solutions.

“We are working to overcome these hurdles and ensure the project’s timely completion.”

Mkandawire said the project team is currently focusing on addressing the challenges to ensure they deliver a modern border facility.

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