6.3 Logistics BVR Process The logistical challenges experienced during observer accreditation continued into the BVR Blitz exercise, albeit at a low scale. ZESN observations were to the effect that the logistical challenges were not significant regarding proportions, although in some instances these challenges affected the ability of aspiring registrants to register. Most of the logistical problems were however dealt with by phase 4 of the registration process, with ZEC responding to equipment failures, shortages, especially of stationary, and most registration centres opening ahead of and on time over 90% of the time. The figure below lists the kind of logistical challenges that ZESN noted during the BVR process during all phases. Figure 2 ZEC BVR Logistical & Preparedness Challenges 6.4 Significant Logistics and Preparedness Challenges Preparatory and logistical challenges included failure to open and late opening of some registration centres. During phase 1, ZESN noted that Gokwe, Bikita, Binga, St Mary's Ward 3, and other areas failed to open due to rains. The Mabvuku Tafara Sub-regional office was unable to open for registration after ZEC had changed the location without prior communications to the community and the Registrar Generals staff who operated at the sub-regional office. Unannounced changes of registration centres were also reported in Budiriro amongst other places. Late openings were noted at various registration centres with the worst being the registration centre at Ward 5 in St Mary’s Chitungwiza, which opened at 1300 hours instead of the advertised 0700 hours. In Phase 2 this challenge was witnessed at Nyaradzai Hall in Zvishavane, Mberengwa, East, West and South, in wards 5, 27, and 3 respectively, as well as Nyanga North (ward 28). This challenge persisted into Phase 3 and 4 but at lower levels. 23