SomapaIT Reaffirms Commitment to Border Security Modernisation as Platinum Sponsor of Africa Border Security Week 2025

Somapa Information Technology (SomapaIT), a global leader in innovative border solutions through its Smart Border Solutions, was proud to serve as Platinum Sponsor of the Africa Border Security Week 2025, held in Cape Town on 6 & 7 May. A longstanding supporter of this key forum, SomapaIT welcomed the opportunity to continue its engagement with border security practitioners and decision-makers from across the continent.

In a first for the event, SomapaIT’s sponsorship this year extended beyond traditional support to include the facilitation of an in-depth breakout workshop designed to foster deeper dialogue on the challenges and opportunities in Africa’s border modernisation.

The workshop, which complemented the formal programme, provided a unique platform for delegates — including senior government officials, regulators, and private sector actors — to explore six core thematic areas of border modernisation through a structured, collaborative discussion.  While the discussion was diverse, common areas of greater cross-border collaboration, information sharing the impact on operational officers were all consistently raised.

The initiative was aligned with SomapaIT’s core philosophy that engagement, collaboration, and shared experience are central to delivering secure, efficient, and future-ready border management systems, which are delivered through zero-investment and build-operate-transfer models.

"Somapa’s approach to border modernisation is grounded in practical experience, proven methodologies, and inclusive dialogue," said Mr Nigel Manns, Executive Vice President for Global Government Engagement at SomapaIT. "It was a privilege to facilitate this workshop and to contribute to a conversation that went well beyond technology — to one that included the institutional, human, and developmental dimensions of reform”.

Workshop participants expressed appreciation for the opportunity to engage in this format. One delegate noted, "This was one of the most valuable parts of the programme — we were able to hear directly from peers facing similar issues and develop ideas together that aren’t always surfaced in presentations". Another added, "Thanks to Somapa for bringing this initiative to the event — it gave us a chance to share, reflect, and be heard. Importantly, we were able to engage and network with counterparts from other countries we may not have otherwise met".

The workshop generated rich insights from the field, highlighting shared challenges and innovative approaches across jurisdictions. The session's outputs will be shared with all delegates, providing tangible and practical information exchange.

Mr Manns concluded by saying, "Our solutions are only as effective as the policy, people, and partnerships that support them. Collaborative design, coupled with customisation, integration and ongoing support are more than a commitment to SomapaIT. We take pride in being a service and expertise partner of the agencies we work with - so it was especially positive to hear delegates identified the significance of change management and skill transfer as key to border modernisation that is responsive and sustainable". Mr Manns added "By listening first, and working alongside our partners, we are continuing to deliver Smart Border Solutions that are not only technically advanced, but fit-for-purpose in diverse national contexts."

SomapaIT looks forward to continuing its support for Border Security Week events and is planning to bring the same workshop-style engagement to upcoming regional forums in East and West Africa later in 2025.