Livingstone Border Set for High-Tech Cargo Scanner

The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has signed a contract with United States-based Astrophysics Inc. for the installation of advanced X-ray cargo scanning technology at the Livingstone Border Post.

ZRA Commissioner General Dingani Banda says the project is aimed at enhancing border security while improving the movement of goods and facilitating trade.

Speaking during the signing ceremony in Lusaka today, Mr Banda said the agreement covers the supply, delivery, installation and commissioning of a drive-through cargo scanner at the border post.

He said the project builds on the successful deployment of a similar scanning system at the Nakonde Border Post in March 2023.

Mr Banda said the advanced technology will strengthen the Authority’s capacity to inspect cargo more efficiently while improving security and trade facilitation.

Meanwhile, Astrophysics Inc. Vice President for Human Resources and Organisational Development Vincent Zayek says the agreement will see the company provide advanced non-intrusive cargo scanning technology.

And U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Mich Coker has described the project as a model for modern border management that strikes a balance between facilitating legitimate trade and strengthening security.

Mr Coker says the initiative will support Zambia’s efforts to enhance domestic revenue collection, improve the ease of doing business and position the country as a secure regional trade hub.