Beightbridge, a crossing point between Zimbabwe and South Africa, is one of the continent’s busiest border crossings.
The daily volume of traffic crossing the border ensures that the lines will never end. Since there are always lines, processing time for pedestrians and cars at the Beightbridge border is always lengthy.
To alleviate congestion at the Beitbridge Border Crossing, it has been reported that Zimbabwe is preparing to construct a second bridge across the Limpopo River. This will facilitate faster and more orderly traffic flow.
Nonetheless, many people in South Africa have strong feelings about this news. It was suggested that instead of constructing a bridge, the Zimbabwean government should invest in more hospitals.
They fear that building a bridge will encourage more illegal immigrants to cross the border. To reduce people’s desire to travel, the government should invest in infrastructure closer to home.
Some others even argued that instead of building a bridge they should be building a wall so that illegal immigrants do not keep streaming into South Africa.
“Stop the flood of illegal immigrants to South Africa by constructing a wall. To reduce crime, this is essential “prof. Moya tweeted this
But, there were also many who welcomed the news with open arms. They want for Africa to be unified and for individuals to be free to travel throughout the continent without hindrance
It’s great to hear the news. Africa has to stop erecting barriers and start constructing bridges. Together, we become a single entity. Let’s boost travel between our two countries “wrote Nhlanhla Dube
In my perspective, a bridge is warranted as it offers a potential solution to an existing issue. But, harsher restrictions should be imposed at the border to stem the flow of illegal immigrants into South Africa.