Zambia Signs Deal for Advanced X-Ray Cargo Scanner at Livingstone Border to Boost Trade and Security
The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has signed a contract with US-based Astrophysics Inc. to supply, install and commission advanced X-ray cargo scanning technology at the Livingstone Border Post, one of Southern Africa’s busiest trade crossings.
The drive-through scanner will enable customs officers to inspect trucks and cargo more efficiently, accurately and safely, helping to detect contraband, smuggled goods and potentially dangerous materials while reducing the need for time-consuming physical inspections.
The project is also expected to reduce waiting times for trucks and cargo, helping ease congestion and improve the movement of legitimate goods through one of Zambia’s key trade gateways.
The agreement builds on existing cooperation between Astrophysics and ZRA. The company previously supplied similar scanning technology to the Nakonde Border Post, which became operational in 2026.
ZRA Commissioner General Dingani Banda said the investment supports Zambia’s drive to use technology to improve customs administration, facilitate trade and secure the supply chain.
Zambia’s strategic position along six major trade corridors makes efficient border management particularly important to regional commerce.
US Chargé d’Affaires Mich Coker said the project demonstrates how advanced technology can facilitate legitimate trade while strengthening border security.
The US Embassy said the initiative also supports Zambia’s priorities of increasing domestic revenue collection, improving the ease of doing business and strengthening the country’s position as a regional trade hub.
The Livingstone installation represents another step in Zambia’s modernisation of customs infrastructure and could improve both trade efficiency and revenue protection along key Southern African trade routes.
