Zambezi Governor Alufea Sampofu says the security cluster continues to operate with limited resources, stating that regional security was compromised due to economic constraints during the 2021–2022 financial year.
Speaking during his State of the Region address, Sampofu particularly mentioned the lack of transport, which has limited the mobility of the police in their efforts to intensify crime control.
However, Sampofu stresses that despite all the challenges, successful operations were carried out that resulted in curbing some hidden criminal activities.
"Our two borders of Ngoma and Katima Mulilo, with the other legal points of entry, recorded a total of 225,340 entries and 214,892 departures. The highest figure has been recorded at Katima Mulilo Border Post, which is rated among the top revenue collectors in the country, hence the greater need to revamp the border to a one-stop border as well as transition to a 24-hour operation."
The Zambezi Governor was dismayed over the lack of green schemes in the region, despite the four traditional authorities availing hundreds of hectares for agricultural purposes to the government.
On international relations, Sampofu said the regional leadership has entered into bilateral relations with the Western Province in Zambia to strengthen ties and trade relations.
"In the same manner, the regional leadership put in an effort with Mbeya Province in the Republic of Tanzania, which is more focused on Agriculture. We are currently waiting for their visit, if budget allows, so that we can link up and cooperate with them in trade activities."
The Governor is also concerned that the region is sitting on numerous projects that are not completed because of the delays from the line ministries in paying contractors.
"The Magistrate's Office in Katima Mulilo, the Crocodile Farm at Kongola, Liselo/Katims Farm in Katima Mulilo Rural, Teachers' houses in several schools, Home Affairs Offices in Katima Mulilo, and the Water Front in Katima Mulilo. Resistance from Community members in the settlements to pave the way for development, particularly at Sibbinda and Lusese."
Congestion of trucks in the buffer zones at Katima Mulilo due to a lack of truck ports is another challenge that Sampofu says causes threats to Truck drivers.
He says a lack of Infrastructure at Impalila Border Post, for accommodation of staff members, hampers revenue collection for the State, while understaffing in the Agricultural Development Centres and inadequate transport hamper service delivery.