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IOM-Zimbabwe launches pilot Border Management project
International Organization for Migration - Zimbabwe
October 21, 2005

The Government of Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Home Affairs has long identified improving border management as a top priority, and requested IOM to provide the technical expertise for the landlocked Zimbabwe.

IOM has successfully implemented similar programmes around the world, and seconded a top technical adviser from recently completed similar programmes in Zambia and Georgia.

The pilot project at the Harare airport is part of the first phase of an IOM Border Management project that will expand to other entry points in Zimbabwe. The IOM project is funded by the IOM 1035 facility under its Technical Cooperation on Migration Service Area.

Enhancing the capacity of the Immigration Department, IOM has installed thirteen computers, a server, cabling, and electronic passport scanners. The pilot project has also introduced an advanced Personal Identification and Registration System (PIRS) to capture information from the passports of incoming and outgoing passengers.

The scanners will serve several functions: for travellers, they will expedite immigration formalities when arriving into and departing from Harare International airport.

For the Government of Zimbabwe, the computerized scanners will provide technological improvements to the Department of Immigration’s facilities at its headquarters and at Harare International Airport, enabling Government to maintain a database on exits and entries into Zimbabwe.

The scheme will benefit the whole of the Southern African region, given that the programme uses a central, personal identification database. This means that national and regional security will be enhanced through a vast improvement in the exchange of migration intelligence.

Following successful implementation at Harare International, the programme will expand to other national border crossings, further strengthening Zimbabwe’s capacity to make valuable, frontline contributions in the global fight against human trafficking, terrorism and crime.

For further information, please contact Nicola Simmonds,
Tel: +263 4 335044;
Email nsimmonds@iom.co.zw

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