Zimbabwe’s government has launched a major surveillance operation along its eastern border with Mozambique using drone technology to tackle rampant smuggling. Authorities say the initiative, which began on May 1, 2025, is already producing measurable results.
The drones are being deployed at known smuggling hotspots, such as the Forbes Border Post, which connects Zimbabwe’s Manicaland Province to Mozambique’s Manica Province. Authorities report that the increased aerial surveillance has led to a decrease in smuggling cases and an increase in apprehensions.
Manicaland State Minister for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Barrister Misheck Mugadza, praised the use of drones to enhance border security. “We have seen a significant decrease in smuggling. Drones enhance our security efforts and help us identify suspects. They also act as a deterrent,” Mugadza said.
Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) Commissioner of Customs and Excise Adrian Swarres highlighted the strategic value of the technology.
“With over 700 kilometres of border, UAVs enable rapid deployment and real-time monitoring, increasing coverage and reducing reliance on physical patrols,” Swarres said.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police also reported an increase in smuggling-related arrests, although specific figures have not yet been released. According to Manicaland state police spokesperson Sub-Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka, operations have intensified since the introduction of the UAVs.
A local investigation by The Manica Post revealed that the crackdown has deterred smuggling activities. In Honde Valley, former smuggler Dudzai Macheso said he had abandoned the illegal trade to open a market.
“Smuggling is now very dangerous with flying drones. I chose to do a legal business instead,” he said.
Authorities are also continuing ground operations. The latest clash between police and suspected smugglers resulted in a deadly shootout, resulting in the arrest of three people and the seizure of contraband including vehicles and thousands of dollars worth of second-hand clothing and shoes.
Meanwhile, plans are underway to upgrade infrastructure at the Forbes Border Post. During a recent site visit, Finance Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube said private investors would redevelop the facility, following a model similar to the Beitbridge Border Post redevelopment.
“We expect a modern and efficient border post under this concession model,” he said.
The redevelopment is part of a wider government strategy to modernise all ports of entry. The plan includes digitalised border management systems designed to increase efficiency, reduce corruption and tighten security.
Home Affairs Minister Kazembe Kazembe also announced the introduction of an integrated system linking immigration, police and civil registration departments. Most of the equipment is already in place and the installation of e-gates is currently underway.
“The system uses facial recognition and online automation to reduce waiting times and minimise human error,” Kazembe explained during a tour of Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport.
To further ease congestion at Forbes, the government is considering opening new official entry points in Honde Valley and Cashel Valley.
The deployment of drones and broader reforms reflect Zimbabwe’s national efforts to secure its borders, facilitate legal trade and improve cross-border travel for citizens and visitors.