Almot Maqolo, Staff Writer 
THE Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) has reported a significant increase in the interception of prohibited goods, seizing items worth US$725 423 in 2023 alone.
This represents a 101 percent increase compared to the US$361 420 worth of prohibited goods detected in 2022.
Zimra attributes this success to the expanded presence of its canine unit (K9) at major ports of entry, including international airports.
In collaboration with state security agents, Zimra has seized contraband such as cannabis, heroin, and skin lightening creams.
Regina Chinamasa, Commissioner General ZIMRA
“We have seen an upward trajectory in terms of the movement of prohibited goods across borders,” said Zimra commissioner-general Regina Chinamasa.
“We rely mainly on the K9 unit and scanners, in collaboration with other state border control agencies, to intercept these goods.”
Zimra is also intensifying its fight against corruption, which has significantly impacted the country’s revenue.
Chinamasa put emphasis on Zimra’s “carrot-and-stick approach,” which combines awareness campaigns, lifestyle audits and asset recovery measures in collaboration with law enforcement agencies.
Smuggling, however, remains a major concern, with an estimated US$1,5 billion lost annually through illicit flows.
To combat this, Zimra has introduced drones and plans to deploy them at all key border posts by the end of 2024.
Plans are also in place to upgrade the electronic cargo tracking system and installing more fast scanners.
The 2024 national budget includes changes aimed at closing off revenue leakages, and Zimra has already collected ZiG34,4 billion in revenue, thanks to improved compliance and policy reforms.
Overall, Zimra’s efforts to combat smuggling and corruption are yielding positive results, but challenges remain in achieving sustainable economic growth and improving the lives of ordinary citizens.
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