Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Jack Mwiimbu, has called on the Department of Immigration to take decisive action against the rising number of undocumented immigrants in the country.
Mr. Mwiimbu highlighted growing public concerns over illegal immigrants settling in communities, warning that failure to address the issue promptly could lead to citizens taking matters into their own hands.
He made these remarks today during the 2024 Senior and Regional Immigration Officers’ Annual Conference in Chongwe.
Mr. Mwimbu also commended the service commission for its efforts in strengthening migration management, including the rollout and enhancement of the Zambia Immigration Management System (ZIMS) and the establishment of new Internal Border Controls across various parts of the country.
“The Ministry will provide the necessary support to ensure that the newly gazetted Lumi and Lonshi border posts, along with internal offices in Chongwe, Kalumbila, and Maamba, are fully operational by the end of this year,” said Mr. Mwiimbu.
He further assured the Department of Immigration that government is committed to addressing key challenges, including inadequate office infrastructure, staff shortages, and logistical constraints.
Meanwhile, Immigration Director General, Japhet Lishomwa, acknowledged that despite an increase in prosecutions related to irregular migration, the country continues to face significant pressure from the vice.
However, he expressed optimism that through collaborations with local and international partners and the implementation of relevant policy reforms, the department will be better equipped to combat illegal migration.
By Cynthia Lupiya.
