Astrophysics Inc. and the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) have agreed a contract to equip the Livingstone border post – which is said to be one of Southern Africa’s busiest crossings – with innovative X-ray cargo scanning technology.
The agreement will equip ZRA Officers with technology to inspect cargo more efficiently and safely, cutting wait times for trucks and cargo, while making it more difficult to move contraband, smuggled goods or dangerous materials across the border.
Astrophysics & ZRA
The signing of the contract marks a step forward for regional trade and security.
In fact, the agreement builds off existing Astrophysics and ZRA cooperation at the Nakonde border post, which was commissioned by President Hichilema in June 2026 and is now fully operational.
Vincent Zayek, VP of Human Resources and Organizational Development, Astrophysics Inc. alongside ZRA Commissioner, General Dingani Banda, signed the contract at the US Embassy in Zambia.
The signing took place during a ceremony hosted by Chargé d’Affaires, Mich Coker, and was attended by senior Zambian government officials.
“Long-term partnership”
Coker called the initiative a model for modern border security: technology that accelerates legitimate trade while closing the door to those who would abuse it.
The project supports Zambia’s own priorities, including strengthening domestic revenue collection, improving the ease of doing business and positioning the country as a reliable, secure hub for regional trade.
“American companies deliver not just best-in-world technology, innovation and equipment, but an unrivaled standard of quality, of transparency and of long-term partnership rather than a one-time transaction,” Coker said.
Kully Nelson, Senior Commercial Officer, US Embassy Zambia added: “Astrophysics is a world-class X-ray and inspection company for vehicles, trucks and cargo containers.
“We are delighted to see it expand its border posts cooperation with Zambia Revenue Authority.”
Coker also praised the ZRA, under Commissioner General Dingani Banda’s leadership, for running a transparent procurement process and advancing the modernisation of Zambia’s customs and border operations.