South African border towns, such as Mahikeng and Zeerust in North West Province, have been enjoying booming business from an influx of Botswana citizens who are flocking across the border to carry out last-dash shopping at local malls.

Many shoppers from Botswana are taking advantage of the weaker South African rand to shop across the border and the Ramatlabama border post, less than 30 kilometres north of here, is one of the busiest borders crossings, with Botswana nationals seen streaming in with cash in hand, and ready to splurge.

The shoppers are complaining of steep prices in Botswana and are taking advantage of the favourable exchange rate between the Pula and the Rand.

Zeerest is one of the border towns where businesses are benefiting. Zeerust Shopping Center Manager Carol Shading says: Throughout the year, not only during this festive season, they are here to support us. I think you can see during the holidays if they have holidays in Botswana they all come here to do their shopping which is good for our economy.

Source: NAM NEWS NETWORK