Botswana, South Africa: Ramatlabama border closed due to trucker strike, May 21

Botswana's border authorities - the Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS) - have issued a notice over the reported closure of the Ramatlabama border post with South Africa, May 21. This is reportedly due to an ongoing strike by members of the All Truck Drivers Forum and Allied South Africa (ATSD-ASA), who had previously threatened to hold a nationwide shutdown in South Africa on May 20. This was likely related to the employment of foreign nationals instead of local drivers. Authorities have advised travelers to use alternative routes.

Localized delays and traffic backlogs are likely along the N18/A1 highways along the Gaborone-Mahikeng axis. Increased security is also likely at the border post, especially in the event of protests. Dangerous driving, especially from impatient trucker drivers, is likely. Increased congestion will likely affect the nearby Skilpadshek Border Post along the N4/A2 highways.