'Inmates to share testimonies': BMA launches anti-corruption awareness drive at Beitbridge border
The Border Management Authority (BMA) launches an anti-corruption drive at Beitbridge border, featuring testimonies from convicted offenders to highlight the human cost of graft and promote accountability among border officials.
Image: Facebook/BMA
The Border Management Authority (BMA) and its partners will on Tuesday host a major anti-corruption awareness campaign at the Beitbridge port of entry in Musina, as part of efforts to clamp down on graft and illicit activities at the country’s busiest land border.
The campaign, organised under the Border Management and Immigration Anti-Corruption Forum (BMIACF), brings together the BMA, the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), the Department of Home Affairs and the Department of Correctional Services.
The BMIACF serves as a collaborative platform for government, law enforcement, civil society and the private sector to tackle systemic corruption in border and immigration management.
In a novel approach, inmates convicted of corruption-related offences will share their personal testimonies at the event. Organisers say the aim is to use real-life experiences to raise awareness and promote a culture of integrity among officials and communities.
Speaking ahead of the campaign, BMA deputy assistant commissioner for communications and marketing, Mmemme Mogotsi, said the initiative is part of a broader effort to restore public trust in border operations.
“The aim of the campaign is to allow for inmates who have been incarcerated for corruption to provide real-life testimonies at the event. The model of having inmates providing these testimonies will showcase a transformative and preventative approach to anti-corruption education and justice reform,” said Mogotsi.
BMA deputy assistant commissioner for communications and marketing, Mmemme Mogotsi
Image: Supplied
The campaign will be attended by SIU Head Advocate Andy Mothibi, BMA Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato, Home Affairs Director General Tommy Makhode, and Correctional Services Commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale.
During the programme, the leaders of these institutions will sign a public pledge against corruption, followed by a walkabout at the Beitbridge border post.
Mogotsi said the campaign also aligns with Operation Hi-Tivise, the BMA’s nationwide effort encouraging citizens to report suspicious activities.
Reports can be made through the anti-corruption hotline at 0801 229 019 or online on the BMA website www.bma.gov.za.
The event will take place on Tuesday, 11 November 2025, from 08:30 to 4:30 pm, at the Beitbridge port of entry in Musina.
jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za
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