The Maseru Border Post has extended the working hours to accommodate more people expected to come home during this festive season.
This was disclosed by Maseru Border Management Agency Manager, Mrs. ‘Mamoswati Polisa who said since the border was closing at 10pm due to the curfew, this festive season the border post will open 24 hours which she said started from December 01 and will end on January 15, 2021.
Mrs. Polisa said the purpose of the extension is to avoid congestion at the border as they are expecting more Basotho to come home from South Africa as well as other visitors, adding that this is to ensure that there are no people who will sleep at the border while at the same time ensuring that they reduce the spread of COVID-19.
She said Basotho and other visitors entering the country are  still expected to produce their COVID-19 free certificates, saying for those who do not have such certificates will be tested at the port of entry then be granted the certificate however noted that for those who will test positive for COVID-19 will be advised accordingly.
She added that Basotho from South Africa will not be charged for the COVID-19 tests.
She cautioned all travelers to declare all they have bought in South Africa, emphasising that they should have proper receipts for their goods so to help the Lesotho Revenue Authority (LRA)  to easily do their work.
She noted that there is no tax or money collected or paid to LRA personnel or any other officer at the border and that for business community import VAT should deposited at the bank at the port, highlighting that the only thing that should be given to LRA personnel is the receipt as proof that they have deposited the required import VAT.
She stressed that the only cash paid at the border is for toll gate and not any other service.
Mrs. Polisa further stressed that hawkers are expected to declare their goods with receipts, noting that VAT is also paid for second hand clothes.
Again, she said there will be health personnel working together with police and the army at illegal crossings to ensure that all people crossing to Lesotho are screened, tested and vaccinated against COVID-19.
The high influx of Basotho coming into the country from South Africa is usually experienced between December 20 and 25.
Source: LENA 14/12/2021