Staff Writer
Zimbabwe has unveiled the COMESA Digital Yellow Card USSD platform (*538#), a real-time verification system aimed at improving transparency, reducing border delays and boosting the efficiency of regional trade.
Speaking on behalf of Sienzeni Mateta — acting chief director for Economic Cooperation, International Trade and Diaspora in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade — Insurance Council of Zimbabwe (ICZ) deputy chairperson Alice Shumba said the launch represents a major step in advancing regional integration and trade facilitation.
“In an era where our economies are increasingly interconnected, the ability to ensure seamless and secure cross-border trade is more critical than ever,” said Mateta, emphasising the importance of the new platform.
She said the introduction of the USSD application, which enables instant verification of Yellow Cards using any mobile phone, reflects both technological progress and a strong commitment to easing movement across the COMESA region.
“This innovative step is not just a technological advancement but a significant stride towards enhancing the efficiency of cross-border trade and movement within the COMESA region,” Mateta said.
The COMESA Yellow Card Scheme is a regional third-party motor insurance programme implemented across all participating member states. It supports cross-border trade by facilitating smooth vehicle transit and ensuring compensation for victims of accidents involving foreign motorists.
To curb fraud and strengthen enforcement, the COMESA Council of Bureaux Secretariat (CBS) developed the new USSD tool, which allows officers to verify the validity of a Yellow Card instantly.
“This innovation will enhance transparency, prevent misuse of fraudulent cards, and speed up border clearance procedures,” said Mateta.
The scheme offers uniform insurance cover across member countries, lowering risks and administrative barriers. Mateta noted that in the 2022/23 period, 308,844 Yellow Cards were issued, generating US$17.23 million in premiums.
She also highlighted COMESA’s broader role in promoting regional integration, saying the organisation continues to push for a unified and efficient economic community that delivers tangible benefits to all members.
CBS chief executive Calven Mutyavaviri said the digital USSD platform marks an important milestone in the ongoing transformation of the Yellow Card Scheme.
He described the scheme as a major component of regional safety and trade. “The commercial yellow card scheme is a regional third-party multi-billion dollar project, a cornerstone of regional integration, full-time trade and transport while reducing the financial burden of road traffic accidents,” he said.
Mutyavaviri added that real-time verification will improve both safety and efficiency in cross-border transport. “The CBS has already undertaken extensive border training and distributed educational material to ensure effective adoption of the tool across all the country’s borders,” he said.
Insurance and Pensions Commission (IPEC) director Sibongile Siwela said the new platform strengthens IPEC’s mandate in market conduct supervision, consumer protection and regulatory compliance.
