Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Hon. Jack Jacob Mwiimbu, SC, MP has commended the Zambia Department of Immigration for its strong operational performance, progressive reforms, and exceptional revenue collection in 2025, describing the achievements as evidence of discipline, resilience, and effective leadership within the institution.
The Minister said the Department’s efforts in combating illegal immigration, strengthening border security, and improving service delivery have contributed significantly to national development and internal security.
Speaking during the official opening of the 2025 Senior and Regional Directors’ Annual Conference held in Livingstone, Hon. Mwiimbu praised the Department for surpassing its revenue target by over 30 percent after collecting a record K1,603,797,461.53.
He described the milestone as a testament to the hard work, commitment, and professionalism of Immigration officers across the country.
Hon. Mwiimbu further applauded the Department’s institutional reforms, including restructuring, expanding the staff establishment, recruitment of officers, and the introduction of Border Guards to curb cross-border crimes such as human trafficking and smuggling.
The Minister also disclosed that the Immigration Control Bill has successfully passed all parliamentary stages and is now awaiting Presidential assent. He added that progress has been made on the Job Evaluation and Re-grading Exercise, which is expected to improve salaries and conditions of service once implemented.
While applauding the progress, the Minister also acknowledged challenges facing the Department, including inadequate transport, erratic funding, and dilapidated infrastructure at various stations. He assured officers that government is working to resolve these concerns and revealed that the new Immigration Headquarters in Lusaka has been completed and will soon be handed over by the contractor.
Hon. Mwiimbu also urged officers to uphold human rights during enforcement operations, advising against prolonged detention of illegal immigrants and encouraging timely repatriation processes.
He further commended the Department’s digital transformation efforts, particularly the upgrade of the Zambia Immigration Management System (ZIMS), which is expected to improve efficiency, risk management, and service delivery.
The Minister emphasised the need for discipline, professionalism, and non-partisanship, especially as the country approaches the election period, noting that integrity and public trust remain key to Immigration’s mandate.
Meanwhile, Director General of Immigration Dr. Japhet M. Lishomwa welcomed delegates and described the conference as the Department’s highest strategic platform for reviewing performance and setting direction for the year ahead.
Dr. Lishomwa revealed that Immigration recorded over 2.8 million entries and 2.6 million exits in 2025, reflecting Zambia’s growing position as a regional hub for trade, tourism, education, and investment.
He also reported a significant rise in visa issuances and an increase in Employment and Investor’s permits, indicating growing investor confidence. He added that although study permits slightly declined, Zambia remains a preferred destination for higher education in the region.
On enforcement, Dr. Lishomwa said the Department intensified operations across the country, leading to increased detentions, arrests, prosecutions, and removals of illegal immigrants, though efforts were affected by transport and funding challenges.
He also highlighted digital progress, including the rollout of ZIMS to eight more stations and the introduction of the Electronic Border Pass at selected border controls, which has improved service delivery in border communities.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Chief Legal Officer Mrs. Hazel Chikamba thanked the Minister for recognising the Department’s achievements and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to professionalism, discipline, and improved migration management.
The conference is being held under the theme: “Transforming Migration Management through Strategic Reforms and Digital Solutions.”
Source: Zambia Department of Immigration
