Zimbabwe has launched full-scale surveillance by drones along its eastern Mozambique border, intensifying efforts to fight cross-border smuggling. The move is part of a broader national strategy to enhance border security, improve law enforcement response, and modernise port infrastructure.
The drones, which became operational on 1 May 2025, are being deployed at key smuggling hotspots such as the Forbes Border Post, a critical link between Zimbabwe’s Manicaland Province and Mozambique’s Manica Province. Officials say the initiative has already led to a noticeable drop in smuggling activity.
Advocate Misheck Mugadza, Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, confirmed the success of the initiative. “Smuggling cases have declined significantly. The drones have become an essential deterrent and allow authorities to identify offenders in real-time,” he said.
The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) supports the strategy, citing increased surveillance coverage with fewer ground patrols required. “With a border stretching over 700 kilometres, drones offer faster deployment and valuable intelligence,” said Adrian Swarres, acting Commissioner for Customs and Excise.
Police have reported a rise in arrests related to smuggling, although exact figures are not yet public. Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka, the provincial police spokesperson, attributed the trend to the enhanced monitoring enabled by the drones.
Field reports suggest that the presence of drones is reshaping local behaviour. In Honde Valley, former smuggler Dudzai Macheso said he abandoned illegal cross-border trade in favour of starting a legitimate grocery business. “Smuggling has become too risky with drones watching every move,” he said.
Law enforcement efforts continue on the ground as well. A recent raid by a special police taskforce ended in a deadly confrontation with suspected smugglers, resulting in three arrests and the seizure of contraband goods valued at thousands of dollars.
During a recent visit to the Forbes Border Post, Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube unveiled plans for redevelopment in partnership with private investors. The upgrade will modernise facilities and align them with operations at Beitbridge, Zimbabwe’s busiest border post.
The Mozambique project is part of a wider government effort to introduce computerised and online border systems across all entry points. The goal is to streamline trade, curb corruption, and improve the travel experience. Home Affairs Minister Kazembe Kazembe also announced the upcoming rollout of an integrated system linking immigration, police, and civil registry departments.
“The system includes facial recognition and e-gates, which will reduce queues and human error,” Kazembe said during a tour of immigration facilities at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport.
Authorities are also planning to open new formal entry points at Honde Valley and Cashel Valley to ease congestion at the Forbes Border Post.
