The residents of Kabbe North and South Constituencies in the Zambezi Region are worried about the closure of the immigration office at Luhonono, which has been closed since the COVID-19 pandemic hit the country in 2020.

The residents of the two Kabbe Constituencies mainly from Luhonono, Nankuntwe, Nsundwa Namiyundu Muzii, and Mpukano say the closure of the border has had a negative impact on them. 

The challenges include facing arrest in Zambia when they cross illegally to go buy food because it is cheaper to buy in Zambia than travelling to Katima Mulilo.

The community says they only use canoes and boats to cross to the next border Mwandi within a short period of time.

Community members claim that the immigration officials are not taking their issues seriously, despite having brought such concerns to their attention

Members of the communities further expressed that it used to be better when the border was open because even when you get sick and the nurses are on leave, they could cross into Zambia for services.

If they attempt to cross the border at present, they will be arrested.

Contacted for comment, the Immigration and Border Control Deputy Director in Zambezi Matrida Musweu, admitted that she was aware of the situation at Luhonono and that negotiations between the two countries to reopen the Luhonono are at an advanced stage.