02 Jan 2025 | 01:07 PM UTC
South Africa/Mozambique: Further disruptions at Lebombo border crossing likely through January due to continued unrest /update 5
Intermittent border closures likely at Lebombo border between South Africa, Mozambique through January due to continued unrest.
Further travel disruptions are likely near the Lebombo border post through January at least due to continued political unrest in Mozambique. While the situation appeared to have somewhat improved, with backlogs cleared, renewed protests in November and December led to repeated closures and further delays. Closures led to severe delays, with vehicle queues extending up to 30 km (18 miles) from the border; South African authorities had advised deferring travel through the area.
Increased security is likely at the border, especially during peaks of unrest; authorities may implement additional screening measures or deploy additional personnel in search of escaped convicts. Disruptions to cross-border transport and local traffic are probable until tensions ease. Protests denouncing the border closure are possible if trade disruptions continue for an extended period. Additional localized delays and traffic backlogs are likely along the N4 highway and Komatipoort. Dangerous driving, especially from impatient trucker drivers, is likely. Opportunistic looters could target stationary vehicles, including both private and cargo transport vehicles. Increased congestion will likely affect the nearby Mananga Border Post in Eswatini and Mozambique.
The Lebombo Crossing Point is located about 100 km (63 miles) east of Mbombela (Nelspruit), South Africa, and 81 km (50 miles) northwest of Maputo, Mozambique.
Reconfirm the status of the border crossing and likely backlogs before departure. Plan for disruptions to cross-border transport and local traffic in the area. Consider making alternative plans for passenger travel and freight shipment. Heed authorities' instructions. Avoid all protests.
South Africa's Border Management Authority (BMA) has intermittently closed and reopened the border post since Nov. 5 amid protests in the nearby town of Ressano Garcia, Mozambique, following the presidential elections in early October. Skirmishes have led to security services firing rubber bullets and tear gas at protesters; at least one protester was killed on Dec. 13. There also are concerns that some of the 6,000 prisoners who escaped from a high-security prison in Matola, Maputo, on Dec. 25 may attempt to cross into South Africa through or near the border post.
