On the North South Corridor journey times are typically one-third driving and two-thirds waiting. The most effective way to reduce costs is to reduce waiting times at borders. This can be done by converting to one-stop border posts (OSBP). To implement an OSBP there is need to address: physical facilities (common control zone with a fenced perimeter, common facilities – scanning, weighbridges and inspection bays); operations and training; and legal framework (extraterritorial jurisdiction.

Chirundu is moving into a phase where it will truly operate as a OSBP. There have been challenges but procedures are now signed off so outstanding issues (such as signage, training programmes, laying of optical fibre, preparation of a performance charter and final modifications to buildings can now be completed.

The opening of Chirundu as a one-stop border post has led to significant savings in time taken to cross the border and this has translated into cost savings. However, what is required now is to reduce time taken to cross other borders on the North South Corridor so that cost savings can be realised along the whole corridor.