Minister of home affairs, immigration, safety and security Lucia Iipumbu says the Zambezi region remains strategic and unique, but continues to face threats from illicit cross-border crimes.
Addressing a regional ministerial staff meeting at Katima Mulilo on Friday, Iipumbu called for vigilance among staff members who facilitate lawful movement, support legitimate trade, promote tourism and serve communities with dignity and professionalism.
The minister is on a two-day working visit to the region, during which she is expected to inspect ongoing ministerial projects, conduct border visits and participate in possible police operations, among other activities.
“You are expected to protect the borders of the republic, uphold the law, detect irregularities, prevent crime and maintain internal security. This is not an easy responsibility, but it is a noble one.
“You are not merely operating offices, border posts, police stations, correctional facilities and service points. You are helping to secure the republic. You are helping to protect communities. You are helping to give identity and dignity to citizens. You are helping to make the state visible where it matters most,” she said.
Iipumbu urged staff members to uphold professionalism and apply the law consistently despite the challenges facing the region, stressing that such difficulties should never become an excuse for poor service delivery or indiscipline.
“I am aware that the Zambezi region faces real operational challenges. Distances can be long. Some communities are remote. During rainy seasons and flooding, access becomes difficult. Some areas are separated by rivers and floodplains.
“Border communities have family, cultural and economic connections across national boundaries. Officers often work under pressure, sometimes with limited resources. I recognise these realities. However, difficult conditions must never become an excuse for poor service,” she said.
The minister also acknowledged that stock theft remains one of the major issues affecting the region, with many households losing income, food security and farming capacity as a result.
She called on all relevant stakeholders to strengthen cooperation in addressing stock theft and other crimes affecting the region, including housebreaking, theft, gender-based violence, smuggling, unlawful possession of goods, illegal crossings and other offences that disturb public order.
Iipumbu noted that the region’s natural beauty must be protected as part of the country’s national wealth.
She reminded staff members that the region already faces sufficient operational pressures and cannot afford internal disorder, adding that communities expect ministerial staff to be present, disciplined, responsive and fair.
