Pretoria – The Border Management Authority (BMA) is preparing for its busiest weekend of the year as Easter travel peaks, with large volumes of people expected to cross South Africa’s borders.
Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato said on Sunday that Easter is more challenging than the festive season due to the short, concentrated travel period.
Peak departures are expected on Thursday, 2 April, with returns likely on Easter Monday, when traveller numbers could exceed 25,000 per day at major crossings.
“During these peak periods, we expect significant traveller, as well as traffic volumes, potentially reaching double the baseline and exceeding around 25 000 travellers per day, particularly at our busiest points of entry,” Masiapato said.
To manage the surge, the BMA has extended operating hours at several key border posts and coordinated with neighbouring countries.
It has also partnered with government departments such as Social Development, Tourism and Public Works to strengthen border management, particularly to safeguard minors and improve traveller flow.
“To tackle the cross border social challenges particularly safeguarding minors we have partnered with Social Development. In addition we welcome partnership with the Department of Tourism wherein they deployed safety officers to enhance seamless flow of traveler movement within the port environment,” said Masiapato.
@TheBMA_SA Commissioner, Dr Michael Masiapato says the Easter plan reflects the Authority’s commitment for the robust implementation of border law enforcement functions while enabling legitimate travel, tourism and trade during one of the busiest periods on the country’s national… pic.twitter.com/uhpbgEui7W
— The Border Management Authority SA (@TheBMA_SA) March 29, 2026
Advanced security measures have been introduced, including drones, body cameras and secure passport stamps that can be traced to specific immigration officials to curb corruption and illegal crossings.
Authorities warned that both officials and travellers involved in unlawful activities will face consequences.
@TheBMA_SA Commissioner, Dr Michael Masiapato says with regards to the infrastructure augmentation, the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) through its continued support will provide temporary lighting, ablution facilities, barricades and Jojo water tankers,… pic.twitter.com/yp7u7neour
— The Border Management Authority SA (@TheBMA_SA) March 29, 2026
Priority will be given to vulnerable groups, including the elderly, people with disabilities and families travelling with children. Travellers are reminded to carry valid, machine-readable passports and ensure proper documentation, especially when travelling with minors.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
