Moz and Mw working on one border system: A major regional integration move is underway as it becomes a reality.
The two neighbouring countries have agreed to launch a one-stop border post initiative at four key crossings by the end of April 2025—a decision expected to transform trade, mobility, and investment across southern Africa.
Four Strategic Points
The new one-border system will initially be rolled out at the Zòbué, Muanza, Calomué, and Ndiza border posts. These points serve as vital economic arteries between Mozambique and Malawi.
In the first phase of implementation, the immigration and customs services will function from the Malawian side, as Malawi has already completed border facility upgrades at three of the four locations.
The Malawian posts at Muanza (opposite Zòbué) and Ndiza (opposite Calomué) are already equipped to handle the one-stop system, putting them ahead in logistical readiness.
Why Mozambique and Malawi Working on One Border System Matters Now
This bilateral initiative was formalized during a recent high-level meeting held in the Mozambican city of Tete, attended by the Mozambican High Commissioner to Malawi, Alexandre Manjate, and the Malawian Ambassador to Mozambique, Wezi Moyo.
According to Manjate, Moz and Mw working on one border system is part of broader efforts to ease trade bottlenecks, encourage cross-border investment, and align with regional economic reforms.
“This project aims to reduce delays, harmonize procedures, and simplify movement for both goods and people. It’s a strategic pillar for strengthening our economic ties,” Manjate said.
A World Bank-Funded Project
The one-border system is being supported by the World Bank as part of a Southern African trade and connectivity program. This initiative targets the reduction of cross-border trade costs, infrastructure upgrades, and improvements in market access throughout the region.
Ambassador Moyo said, “This is not just a border integration plan. It is a developmental milestone that supports our countries’ economic strategies. Mozambique and Malawi working on one border system will bring down transport and logistics costs, making us more competitive.”
The World Bank’s involvement is helping ensure that international standards are maintained, with digitized processes, improved surveillance, and streamlined customs clearance expected to follow.
Mozambique and Malawi Working on One Border System Will Harmonize Immigration Services
One of the most significant changes under this project is the consolidation of immigration services into shared spaces. In the pilot phase, Malawi’s completed border posts will host shared processing centers where Mozambican and Malawian officials will jointly manage clearances.
“The facilities are ready, and the joint teams have already visited the sites,” said Manjate. “They’ve analyzed the pros and cons, and their findings reflect a strong desire to get this done quickly.”
Moyo added, “We agreed that this should begin immediately, and by April-end, we expect full operation. We are ironing out the procedural details and training staff accordingly.”
Traders, exporters, and logistics firms have welcomed the move with optimism. Delays at the border have often resulted in increased operational costs, particularly for perishable goods like food and agricultural exports.
“This new border system is long overdue,” said a regional transport manager in Tete. “Mozambique and Malawi working on one border system will save us hours—sometimes days—at the border. This translates to faster deliveries, fresher products, and more profit.”
Local business leaders believe the initiative will make both countries more attractive to investors seeking smoother cross-border operations.
Next Steps for Mozambique and Malawi Working on One Border System
With technical teams finalizing the operational procedures, the governments are preparing for a smooth transition. Additional infrastructure work, personnel deployment, and information systems are all in progress to support the project.
Both Mozambique and Malawi have also committed to transparency, ongoing evaluation, and public feedback to ensure the system works efficiently and is scalable in the future.
There are already talks about potentially expanding the model to other Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries if the rollout proves successful.
