De Lille added that several bids for new border security services were published in 2021, with her department currently considering their feasibility.<\/p>\n
She added that the controversial R37 million border fence<\/a><\/strong> which she presided over in 2020 was largely ineffective and that new bids will focus on entirely separate controls.<\/p>\n “In its current form, the fence is not fit for purpose and is in material non-compliance with the project specifications. For this reason, the DPWI has resolved not to carry out any repairs on the fence as this will constitute wasteful expenditure.”<\/p>\n Border Management Authority\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n The government has also established a new Border Management Authority (BMA) which will be at the forefront of fighting illicit and unauthorised movement at the country\u2019s borders. The BMA will be established as a national public entity and will report to the minister of Home Affairs.<\/p>\n Unlike the current system, which relies on a combination of over seven different departments – including\u00a0 SARS, the SAPS, and the SANDF – the new authority will employ its own guards to control and patrol the borders.<\/p>\n The organisation also has its own unique look, uniforms and designs – with a new insignia developed and approved by the Department of Home Affairs.<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/BMA-1-1024x605.png\")
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