NEW DIGITAL ID SYSTEM TO ENABLE PASSPORT-FREE TRAVEL AT KAZUNGULA BRIDGE.

NEW DIGITAL ID SYSTEM TO ENABLE PASSPORT-FREE TRAVEL AT KAZUNGULA BRIDGE.

A new digital national identity system is set to replace the passport requirement for travellers crossing the Kazungula Bridge between Zambia and Botswana.

Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security Principal Public Relations Officer Mwala Kalaluka said the two countries have agreed to allow the use of smart national registration cards for border formalities. The agreement was reached during a bilateral meeting held ahead of the commissioning of the Kazungula Bridge Authority by President Hakainde Hichilema and Botswana President Duma Boko.

Mr Kalaluka noted that Botswana is already using smart identity cards at its borders with Namibia and Zimbabwe. Zambia is expected to roll out its digital national identity system by 2027, with Botswana providing technical support. The two countries will also integrate their databases to ensure smooth and secure border crossings.

The US$259 million bridge project is expected to boost trade, improve connectivity, and promote regional economic growth.