South Africa's BMA launches digital Port Health Management System

The South African Border Management Authority (BMA) has launched the Port Health Management System (PHMS) at Durban Harbour in KwaZulu-Natal. The new digital platform is designed to modernize port health services, which are essential public-health controls used to prevent the spread of diseases at maritime, air, and land borders.

Previously, shipping agents and stakeholders relied on email to submit service requests and supporting documentation. The BMA noted that the email-based process made it difficult for stakeholders to track request progress, view consolidated data, or retrieve historical information.

The PHMS provides an end-to-end digital workflow that allows users to submit requests electronically, upload documentation, schedule and record inspections, and manage invoicing and payments. The system also enables electronic applications for digital endorsements, stamping, and free pratiques, aiming to reduce repetitive administrative tasks and improve overall service efficiency for the maritime industry.