South Africa's busiest land border, Beit Bridge, is operating under severe resource constraints with only 40 body cameras available for approximately 600 border guards.

The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs highlighted that the Border Management Authority (BMA) faces significant operational challenges including personnel shortages, outdated technology, and inadequate equipment.

During an oversight visit, committee members found that manual luggage inspections for passenger buses are still in use due to time constraints, creating security vulnerabilities.The BMA plans to equip all field officials with body cameras to improve accountability and safety.Staff shortages further strain operations as guards perform both immigration duties and frontline protection.Outdated software systems and reliance on a single mobile scanner with limited battery life exacerbate inefficiencies.Only four drones are deployed nationally, restricting surveillance capabilities along the country's extensive borders.

Committee chairperson Mosa Chabane emphasized the urgent need for investment in border security to ensure effective protection while facilitating trade and travel.