Protests and severe flooding has led to the temporary closure of five key border posts between Botswana and South Africa disrupting trade and travel between the two neighbouring countries.
Authorities confirmed that the affected crossings include Stockpoort/Parr’s Halt, Makgobistad/Phitsane Molopo, Bray, Groblersbridge/Martins Drift, and Pontdrift. The closures come as heavy rains continue to cause rising water levels, making passage unsafe for both commercial and private vehicles.
In addition to the flooding, the Trans-Kalahari Corridor Secretariat (TKCS) has issued a warning to travelers and transporters regarding ongoing service delivery protests along the N4 highway, particularly between Zeerust and the Skilpadshek border post. Demonstrations have reportedly caused delays, further complicating movement between the two countries.
Trade between Botswana and South Africa is heavily reliant on these border crossings, with Groblersbridge/Martins Drift serving as a major transit point for goods and fuel supplies. The disruption is expected to impact both importers and exporters, adding pressure on supply chains.
Authorities have advised travelers and freight operators to monitor updates and seek alternative routes where possible. Meanwhile, emergency response teams are assessing the situation as heavy rains persist in parts of the region.
The heavy rains, which have caused widespread flooding in parts of both countries, have rendered several access roads impassable, raising concerns about supply chain disruptions.
Groblersbridge/Martins Drift, a key commercial crossing, is among the affected points, potentially impacting the movement of goods, including essential imports and exports. Transport operators and businesses reliant on cross-border trade have expressed concerns over possible delays and financial losses.
The Executive Director of Trans Kalahari Corridor Secretariat (TKCS), Mr. Leslie Mlungisi Mpofu this week informed “Transporters and members of the public…of the temporary closure of five border posts between Botswana and South Africa due to flooding.”
He confirmed that “ The affected border posts are, Stockpoort/Parr’s Halt, Makgobistad/Phitsane Molopo, Bray, Groblersbridge/Martins Drift, and Pontdrift. As a result of closure of some of these borders, traffic will be diverted to the TKC borders, namely: Tlokweng/Kopfontein, Pioneer/Skilpadshek, and Ramatlabama.”
According to Mpofu, “It is anticipated that the closure of these borders will increase traffic at the TKC borders, causing delays and long queues. We expect these border closures to significantly impact traffic at the TKC borders. Long queues and delays are anticipated, and we urge travelers to plan their journeys accordingly.”
Mpofu also highlighted potential challenges that may arise, such as environmental and sanitation concerns, littering, and a lack of potable water for truck drivers.
He urged border authorities to find swift solutions to these issues to ensure the well-being of transporters. He said the TKCS will continue to monitor the situation at affected ports of entry and will provide updates as the situation evolves.
The TKCS secretariat further cautioned travelers and transporters regarding service delivery protests on the N4, between Zeerust and Skilpadshek.
“ South African authorities have been informed of these protests, and they are attending to these protests. TKCS therefore wishes to advise users of the corridor to remain calm, patient and cooperative as the situation is being resolved,” said Mpofu.
He concluded that “We thank all road users for their understanding and cooperation during this period.”
