The Border Management Authority (BMA), in partnership with the South African Revenue Service (SARS), has resumed cargo operations following the partial reopening of the Lebombo port of entry.
The port which links South Africa and Mozambique was closed earlier this week as a safety precaution due to violent post-election protests in Mozambique.
LEBOMBO PORT OF ENTRY OPEN
The BMA said the port is now open for cargo movement after the Mozambican authorities addressed challenges with their systems to facilitate processing through the Ressano Garcia port of entry into Mozambique. The initial reopening of the port was to manage the movement of persons, but on Saturday morning, the Mozambican authorities worked tirelessly to address cargo systems for smooth border processing.
The Commissioner of the BMA, Dr Michael Masiapato, said they are pleased to announce that the Mozambican systems have been restored, with processing activities resuming at the KM 4 checkpoint on the Mozambican side.
“This development paves the way for the full reopening of the Lebombo port of entry and enables the BMA and SARS teams to work diligently in clearing the current cargo backlog,” Masiapato said.
Travellers have been reminded to remain cautious and informed of travel updates when planning trips to Mozambique.
The BMA said it will continue to monitor the situation closely, ensuring smooth and secure port of entry operations for the benefit of all South African citizens and the broader trade community.
WHAT CAUSED THE VIOLENT PROTESTS?
Mozambique held general elections in October and the ruling. According to the official results, the Frelimo party’s presidential candidate, Daniel Chapo, secured 70.7% of the vote, ensuring the party that has ruled Mozambique since independence in 1975 remained in power. However, there were widespread allegations of rigging, The Guardian reported.
Opposition parties called for an election re-run, citing rigging. Residents started protesting against the results and at least 11 people including a two-year-old child have been shot dead by police who fired to disperse the protestors.
According to The Guardian, human rights researchers have said that the shootings fit a pattern of opposition politicians, journalists, activists and lawyers being killed and no one being brought to justice.
In October, the Southern Africa Tourism Services Association (SATSA) also warned travellers to consider postponing their trips to Mozambique due to the post-election protests.
SATSA and Africa’s Eden Tourism warned that travellers should consider postponing travel plans to Mozambique if possible as there may be disruptions to normal operations, particularly in Maputo and at key border crossings including the Lebombo port of entry.
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT THE SITUATION IN MOZAMBIQUE?
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