MASERU — Minister of Local Government, Chieftainship, Home Affairs and Police, Mr. Lebona Lephema says border operations with South Africa have been running smoothly and peaceably and peacefully during the festive season with authorities reporting efficient coordination, improved services and a steady flow of travellers across major ports of entry.
Mr. Lephema said although there was heavy traffic at some border posts, Basotho were able to cross peacefully through various ports of entry to avoid congestion.
He urged Basotho to ensure that they apply for and collect their travel documents on time, stressing that it is every Mosotho’s right to obtain a passport.
Mr. Lephema warned against bribery, saying corruption delays the processing of passports, and called on the public to report officials who demand bribes.
The Minister said he is satisfied with the cooperation between Lesotho and South Africa, particularly the collaboration with the Department of Border Management Authority.
He added that Lesotho and South Africa have held joint meetings and study visits to countries such as Namibia and Botswana to learn best practices on border management, including the possibility of introducing a one-stop border post to ease movement across borders.
Mr. Lephema also cautioned Basotho to be vigilant during the festive season, noting risks such as human trafficking and exploitation, including people being lured by false job promises.
He strongly discouraged illegal crossings, saying there is no justification for crossing through rivers or undesignated areas.
Deputy Principal Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs, Mr. Nkhotha Machachamise said the purpose of the tour to the ports of entry is to assess yearly traffic flow and identify challenges faced at border posts.
Mr. Machachamise said common challenges include lack of passports and difficulties in obtaining work permits.
He noted that border traffic is flowing smoothly overall, although there were days when the influx of travellers was high.
He explained that South Africa allows Basotho to stay for up to 90 days without a stipulated visa, but not for employment purposes. Authorities have also observed cases of Basotho crossing without documents, some falsely claiming their documents were burned.
Mr. Machachamise said Lesotho has prepared well for border operations and acknowledged delays caused by long operating hours, apologising to travellers. “As part of easing services we have extended operating hours in our offices, including weekends, to ensure Basotho can access documents in time, especially those seeking
