The R12.5 billion programme to redevelop six inland ports of entry has moved into final negotiations with selected preferred bidders, according to National Treasury's 2026 Budget Review.

The Department of Home Affairs plans to use public-private partnership agreements for the design, construction, operation and financing of the border infrastructure.

Procurement is still in progress

The evaluation of proposals has been completed and the bid-evaluation report was approved in the second quarter of 2025/26. Final negotiations are the next step before the proposed agreements return to National Treasury for final approval.

The project aims to reduce congestion, support regional trade and upgrade facilities at six land borders shared with neighbouring countries.

The R12.5 billion figure is the stated programme value. Negotiations do not amount to construction award or financial close, and site work should only be reported after the necessary agreements and approvals are confirmed.

What we will track next

The next useful update on R12.5bn inland border-post PPP moves into final negotiations should identify the current project stage, the evidence supporting it and the decision that must follow. Planning, procurement, construction, commissioning and handover are different milestones and should be reported separately.

Readers should look for a dated scope, responsible institution, approved budget, revised completion date and a clear statement of outstanding work. Those details make progress measurable and reduce the risk that an announcement is mistaken for a finished, operating asset.

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