Building the Future in Steel​

Today, it stands as one of South Africa’s most modern and efficient medium-to-large commercial border posts.

Smit & Fisher Architects (SFA) was appointed to upgrade and refurbish the entire facility, located on the KwaZulu-Natal/Eswatini border. Golela was one of three border posts identified by the Border Control Operational Coordinating Committee (BCOCC) for redevelopment ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Our Role in the Project

SFA has a long history of involvement in the design and modernisation of South Africa’s border infrastructure. In the early 1990s, the firm formed part of a consortium tasked with assessing 51 land border posts that had fallen into disrepair during the Apartheid era. When South Africa reopened its borders, it became clear that significant upgrades were required to manage growing volumes of travellers and goods.

Design & Construction Approach

One of the key challenges was ensuring that the Golela Border Post remained fully operational while construction took place. New infrastructure had to be introduced in phases without disrupting cross-border activity.

The design followed international best practices for border management by improving the flow of traffic, enhancing security, and maximising control and efficiency.

Features of the Upgraded Border Post

• Separate lanes for light vehicles and commercial traffic

• Administrative and customs facilities designed for faster processing

• Vehicle holding areas and scanning points for improved security

• A layout optimised for future expansion, including potential one-stop border post integration with Eswatini

Project Outcome

Operations moved into the new facilities in April 2010, with the border reopening at 07:00 the next morning. The redevelopment significantly improved traffic flow, safety, and overall operational efficiency — positioning Golela as a key gateway between South Africa and Eswatini.