The African government has taken a stance, on enhancing border security by starting the construction of a strong concrete barrier along the countrys borders. This proactive measure is in response to the increasing cases of vehicle theft and smuggling that have been an issue, in the area.
Construction cost
The project, estimated at approximately $2.7 million, is structured into three phases. The first phase encompasses an 8-kilometer stretch adjacent to Tembe Elephant Park.
The barrier’s efficacy in crime prevention was recently highlighted when perpetrators failed to surmount it with a stolen SUV, using iron ladders. The ladders collapsed under the vehicle’s weight, leading the criminals to set it ablaze in a bid to obliterate evidence.
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) plays a pivotal role in this initiative, with 15 companies of troops deployed to safeguard the nation’s borders, especially the high-risk frontiers adjoining Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Lesotho.
Construction activities at the Tembe Elephant Park section are in full swing, as reported in a joint briefing by the South African government and KwaZulu-Natal province. The project has garnered positive feedback from local communities and the SANDF alike.
After facing delays the KwaZulu Natal Provincial Government has resumed the construction of a barrier wall. In 2020 the KwaZulu Natal Department of Roads and Transport, in partnership with the national Department of Public Works and Infrastructure allocated R50 million for manufacturing and installing barriers along the border.
The effectiveness of the barrier, in preventing crime was highlighted when thieves attempted to drive a stolen SUV over it using ‘iron ladders. The ladders seemed to give way leading the criminals to torch the vehicle in an attempt to eliminate evidence.
Phase 1 – the 8 km long barrier near Tembe Elephant Park – will be followed by phase 2 covering 8 km near iSimangaliso Wetland Park and phase 3 covering 9 km from the western boundary of Tembe Elephant Park towards Pongolo River. Phases 2 and 3 are estimated to cost R270 million and take 24 months, starting from September 2024, but discussions still need to be finalised, the DPWI said.
An update presented to the Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans on March 6 revealed significant progress, with over 5 kilometers of the border wall already completed in the uMkhanyakude District Municipality in northern KZN.
The new jersey barriers are strategically placed at locations identified by SANDF soldiers as high-traffic areas for vehicle thieves. This measure is expected to significantly impede the illicit cross-border movement and contribute to the region’s overall security and stability.
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