The Border Management Authority (BMA), established as the country’s third national armed law enforcement authority, is responsible for overseeing border security across ports of entry and borderland areas. With limited fiscal resources and increasing cross-border threats, Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) have offered a sustainable approach to modernising border infrastructure and enhancing security operations.
The Commissioner of the BMA, Dr Michael Masiapto, gave a brief update on PPPs in border management at the Public-Private Partnerships for Defence & Security conference, hosted by the Aerospace, Maritime and Defence Industry Association (AMD) and defenceWeb on 07 March 2025.
The necessity for PPPs in border management arose from several pressing issues. Inefficient border management has significant economic implications, contributing to the expansion of illicit economies while hindering formal economic growth. Uncontrolled migration and cross-border criminal activities, including human trafficking, vehicle smuggling, and narcotics trade, have further exacerbated security concerns.
Given the financial constraints faced by the government, private sector involvement is essential in funding and implementing advanced technological solutions, improving surveillance capabilities, and upgrading infrastructure. Commissioner Masiapato noted that a well-managed border system supports trade facilitation, regional economic integration, and national security.
A significant PPP initiative has been underway since 2014, aimed at redesigning and redeveloping six major commercial ports of entry: Beitbridge, Lebombo, Maseru Bridge, Ficksburg, Oshoek, and Kopfontein. This project, initially managed by the Department of Home Affairs before the establishment of the BMA, sought to transition border posts from security-focused facilities to trade-enabling hubs.
After years of feasibility studies and bureaucratic delays, the evaluation process for bidders began in late 2023, with negotiations and final approvals expected to be completed in 2024. The plan involved phased construction to ensure continuous operations while upgrading infrastructure. To mitigate risk, the bidding process has been structured to prevent any single entity from monopolising multiple large ports.
One key lesson from this process has been the importance of stakeholder co-ordination, noted Masiapato. The success of PPPs in border management relies on cooperation among various government entities, neighbouring countries, and private sector partners. Failure to engage all relevant stakeholders can result in delays and inefficiencies.
Proper project scoping is also critical. Masiapato stated that a comprehensive PPP approach should integrate infrastructure development, technological advancements, and operational improvements. In this case, additional security measures such as fencing and surveillance technology were not initially included, highlighting the need for holistic planning.
Beyond the current projects, Masiapato revealed that future PPP opportunities exist in further modernising the remaining 52 ports of entry. Investments in smart border technologies, including biometric identification, automated processing systems, and surveillance drones, will enhance efficiency and security.
The establishment of a National Targeting Centre, which will consolidate data from various security agencies, has presented another area for private sector collaboration. Additionally, developing staff accommodations at border posts will reduce operational costs and improve personnel efficiency, said Masiapato
Masiapato argued that Public-private partnerships are vital for strengthening border management in South Africa. By leveraging private sector resources and expertise, the government can enhance security, facilitate trade, and address economic challenges associated with illicit cross-border activities. Moving forward, Masiapato believes improved coordination, comprehensive project planning, and technological integration will be key to maximising the effectiveness of PPPs in border security.
