Zimbabwe Launches Online System to Streamline Immigration Procedures with E-Gates

In a bid to modernize its immigration system and enhance border security, Zimbabwe has introduced electronic gates (e-gates) as part of the first phase of its new Online Border Management System (OBMS). The system aims to automate immigration processes, reduce human intervention, and improve the overall efficiency of border control.

So far, 14 e-gates have been installed at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, providing a faster and more secure way for travellers to pass through immigration. The e-gates allow eligible travellers to scan their e-passports, and either facial recognition or fingerprint data is used to authenticate their identity, offering a quick and contactless experience.

According to reports, Zimbabwe’s e-gate system is based on Dubai’s Smart Gates platform, which has been successfully used at Dubai International Airport to provide a seamless, self-service experience for passport control. The system in Zimbabwe is expected to have a similar impact, reducing congestion at international airports and border posts, increasing efficiency, and improving security by discouraging illegal activities such as human trafficking, drug smuggling, and money laundering.

Expansion to Other Locations

Ambassador Raphael Faranisi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, confirmed that there are plans to expand the e-gate system to other key entry points in the country, including Victoria Falls, Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport, and the Beitbridge Border Post. 

He explained how the e-gates work: “These automated self-service barriers authenticate the passport holder’s identity by using data contained in a chip in biometric passports. This is matched with a photo or fingerprint obtained at the e-gate.” The process compares the live data captured at the gate with the biometric information stored in the passport’s chip or the immigration database. If there are no outstanding offences or issues, the system allows the traveller to proceed.

The use of e-gates is expected to significantly enhance border security by reducing the risk of cross-border crimes. Faranisi noted, “E-gates, as a component of the online border management system, will reduce crimes such as human and drug trafficking, and money laundering.”

Zimbabwe’s Broader Digital Transformation

This latest move is part of a broader digital transformation in Zimbabwe’s border management. In August 2024, the Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Kazembe Kazembe, announced the launch of an integrated computerized system that will encompass the civil registry, Zimbabwe Republic Police, and the Immigration Department. The full rollout of the OBMS is expected to be completed at all border posts by the end of 2024.

Zimbabwe has also been upgrading its passport system since issuing e-passports in 2021. The country plans to establish three new e-passport centres in Zambia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, following the success of a trial e-passport office in Johannesburg, South Africa.

This shift towards digital border management marks a significant step forward in Zimbabwe’s efforts to streamline immigration and strengthen its national security infrastructure.