An assessment of the efficiency of information technology systems on border management of freight transport clearing in real time : a case of Chirundu one-stop border post.

This study assessed the efficiency of information technology systems on border management of freight transport clearing at Chirundu One-Stop Border Post. The principle behind was to know the information technology systems used at the border and how there are used by Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA), Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) and clearing agents and their effectiveness and efficiency on freight transport clearing in real time. Moreover, it focused on the
effects of using the information systems, challenges faced when using these systems and measures which can be taken to improve border operations through the use of IT systems. Exploratory sequential mixed research methods were employed in which both qualitative and quantitative data was collected through observations, key informant interviews and questionnaires. With the use of stratified random sampling, out of a total of 970, a sample population of 291 respondents was chosen to take part in the research from Zimbabwe Revenue Authority, Zambia Revenue Authority, clearing agents and freight transport drivers. The findings revealed that various information technology systems which were categorized as software, hardware and internet, were used at the border for various purposes with regards to clearing of freight transport which include information sharing and storage, faster processing and clearing of goods, vehicle and load tracking, communication and planning among different departments/agents at the border. However, the findings also revealed that challenges were being faced as clearing is not done efficiently in real time as it takes various hours for freight transport to be cleared. The challenges included complexity of software, inadequate software and hardware, lack of training of staff, malfunctioning of systems, complexity of information, power outages and inconsistent internet
connectivity. Therefore, the authorities should ensure the continuous training of border agents on the use of IT systems, increase staff working at the border specifically customs and immigration officers, increase of hardware especially scanners, desktops and printers, use of up to date software, maintenance of the IT systems, use of strong internet service providers and use of self-service IT systems which will play a role in real time clearing of freight transport.