Maravi

(HERALD) Scrapping of visas essential

Scrapping of visas essential

THE scrapping of visa requirements between Zimbabwe and Mozambique and the subsequent proposed Beira Development Corridor Will, which is set to promote trade and investment between the two countries, could not have come at a better time. With the first ever biggest tourism investment opportunity for Africa — the 2010 Fifa World Cup — almost here, the recent developments, if fully tapped, will allow the two neighbours to optimise on the opportunities to be provided by the football extravaganza.

The Beira Development Corridor Will is aimed at enhancing trade and investment and would also promote the free movement of goods between the two countries.

The new measures are therefore, the keys to the development of tourism, among other sectors, not only for the benefit of the two countries but the region as a whole.

Both countries have some of the most sought-after tourist attractions in southern Africa, the Victoria Falls and the magnificent Eastern Highlands in Zimbabwe and the black beaches in Mozambique, among others.

With the travel corridors cleared and enhanced trade and investment opportunities provided, it is now time for the business community in the two countries to seize the investment opportunities in either country.

Vast opportunities arise in various areas including tourism and transport.

Among these is the urgent need to upgrade some tourist facilities and infrastructure in both countries.

There is also need to work on the road networks between the two countries and the introduction of easier links of resorts and major towns. Direct air transport between the two countries also needs to run smoo-ther.

Another area to be looked into is the expansion of accommodation facilities ahead of the World Cup therefore hotel groups should seek to spread their wings throughout the cleared corridors.

An influx of tourists is expected during and after the World Cup and for Sadc to ensure lasting results, co-operation among all its members is vital to facilitate intra-regional travel through harmonisation of immigration procedures and easing of cross-boarder movement of international tourists.

Some quarters have already proposed a universal visa to be used within the 14-member Southern African Development Community by 2009 in preparation for the World Cup to be held in South Africa.

Free movement of people among countries generally ensures cordial and fruitful relations among the nations. It also develops trade and investments.

The scrapping of visas also ensures that people from both countries desist from scaling fences to illegally gain entry.

While thousands of Zimbabweans pay huge amounts of money to travel to South Africa, the scrapping of visa requirement now make Mozambique an attractive and easily accessible destination.

We hope that other countries within the region where visas remain in force for travellers will follow suit and scrap this stringent and unfriendly requirement.

Labels: MOZAMBIQUE, VISAS, ZIMBABWE

posted by MrK @ 2:41 PM