Bulawayo, (New Ziana) – The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) is ramping up investment in modern technology and intelligence systems to curb cross border smuggling, which is increasingly becoming sophisticated, and to protect critical national revenue streams, an official has said.
Speaking at a stakeholder engagement meeting on Wednesday, acting ZIMRA Commissioner General Misheck Govha said the country’s economic stability remains firmly anchored on effective border management and vigilant Customs operations.
“Cross-border crime has become more sophisticated and we are strengthening our investment in modern technology and intelligence systems to protect revenue streams, while prioritising integrity and professionalism among officers,” he said.
He said customs officers play a critical dual role of safeguarding the nation from illicit trade while securing revenue that sustains public services and national development.
Govha warned that smuggling and illicit trade pose a serious threat to the economy, undermining local industries, eroding the tax base, distorting fair competition and depriving the government of resources needed for health, education and infrastructure development.
“Revenue collection is inseparable from the protection of society. Smuggling weakens the economy by diverting legitimate trade, promoting unfair competition and causing significant revenue leakages,” he said.
He highlighted that customs and trade-related taxes contributed about 31 percent of ZIMRA’s total revenue last year, underscoring the strategic importance of strong border controls to Government financing.
“The figures demonstrate that strong borders are the foundation of a strong economy. Revenue mobilisation begins with vigilance at our ports of entry,” he said.
The ZIMRA Customs Department operates 17 border posts, including 6 international and commercial airports, manned by more than 1 200 officers stationed at key points of entry.
New Ziana
