Zimbabwe’s Immigration Department is winning widespread praise for its bold modernization drive, as new digital systems at border posts and airports transform the country’s entry and exit points into models of efficiency. From the seamless e-passport and biometrics scanning process at Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport to broader infrastructure upgrades across the country, travelers and stakeholders alike are celebrating the rapid improvements.
By Staff Reporter
“The e-passport scan plus biometrics machine at Joshua Nkomo Airport in Bulawayo is really cool. You just scan your passport on arrival and no stamp needed. In 3 minutes I was done & through. I was concerned about no reentry stamp so I asked the immigration officer about an entry stamp!
He replied “You don’t need one anymore” wow 🤩! Digitization is key to efficiency. Well done @Moha_Zim !”
This was Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Chairperson, Mr. Busisa Moyo, who took to social media on March 5, 2025, to celebrate the achievements of the Immigration Department after personally witnessing their progress at Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport. Several others also weighed in, expressing their delight over the new developments.
Over the past few years, the Immigration Department, working alongside other agencies under the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage — such as the Civil Registry and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) — has been on an aggressive drive to modernize its processes and enhance efficiency.
Key milestones achieved by these Home Affairs departments — through public-private partnerships and collaborative efforts — include the renovation and construction of modern infrastructure at exit and entry points, enhancements to connecting routes, and the digitalization of border management systems.
Other notable development is the introduction of digital passports — a streamlined process that now also enables Zimbabweans abroad to access passport services through newly established Civil Registry offices in foreign countries.
Speaking of border management systems, the Immigration Department has made significant strides, transforming the country’s borders into more efficient and modernized hubs, with further enhancements still underway.
The Chief Director of Immigration, Ms. Respect Gono, recently reaffirmed the department’s commitment to building an efficient, orderly, and modern immigration system that supports Zimbabwe’s broader development goals.
Together with her team, she is working to ensure that past challenges are now a thing of the past, ushering in a new era of order and efficiency.
As the country continue to Industrialize a digitalized immigration system plays a pivotal role in Crafting an Integrated Economic Landscape, an initiative which is line with President Mnangagwa’s vision 2030.”
At the 65th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), the department showcased a range of innovations that have been integrated into its border management systems, highlighting a shift towards full digitalisation.
Across the world, efficient systems ensure secure and seamless processing at entry and exit points, as delays can hinder progress and economic activity.
In response to the past challenges, the Immigration Department developed the National Immigration Policy which provides a clear roadmap to facilitate the smooth and secure movement of people and goods across the country’s borders.
When the Deputy Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Hon. Chido Sanyatwe, toured the Immigration Department stand, she was notably impressed by the professionalism and eloquence of the officers, who articulated the department’s vision centered on streamlined, digitalised operations, which have not oy remained onpaper but are being implemented.
In line with the Government’s Whole-of-Government Approach — where ministries and departments converge on shared programmes — the Immigration Department has seconded a representative to the Zimbabwe Investment Development Agency (ZIDA).”
This ensures that immigration processes are fully integrated into the broader investment facilitation matrix, making Zimbabwe an even more attractive destination for investors.
Ms. Gono believes that policies must not remain on paper; they must be implemented to produce real results hence under her guidance, the Immigration Department is actively operationalising the National Immigration Policy.
Drawing from global best practices and tailoring them to suit Zimbabwe’s unique context, the department has positioned itself to meet international standards while addressing local needs.
In terms of visa services, Zimbabwe which currently offers seven different visa categories, plans to expand further. New visa types targeting areas such as research and other specialised activities are being considered for introduction, aligning Zimbabwe’s visa regime with global trends and broadening access for international stakeholders.
The department’s commitment to innovation and efficiency has already earned praise from industry leaders and users alike, who commended the new systems for significantly enhancing cross-border trade and boosting economic activity.
As Zimbabwe seeks to align with global standards, the progress of the Immigration Department reflects the nation’s broader strides, playing a pivotal role in creating a secure and efficient environment that fosters trade, investment, and international cooperation.
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