South Africa engages with Mozambique on Lebombo border challenges

The Minister of International and Cooperation Ronald Lamola met with Mozambique's Minister of Interior Pascoal Ronda to discuss challenges faced by the neighbouring country as the post-election turmoil in Mozambique continues to cause disruption.

The bilateral engagement was held in Malelane, Mpumalanga on Wednesday.

The meeting exchanged views and agreed on measures to mitigate the disruption of the ports of entry, particularly Lebombo and Ressano Garcia.

Mozambique has been experiencing widespread incidents of violence and disruption to economic activity since the disputed results of the October 9 general election.

The Ministers agreed amongst other things to enhance channels for frequent and continuous engagements to mitigate disruptions to trade and supply chains.

Lamola's department said the Ministers identified alternative routes and agreed to deploy additional resources to expedite trade and collaborate with all stakeholders in order to limit the impact of the disruptions on operations.

"The Ministers agreed that both countries will endeavour to protect and secure the infrastructure for trade facilitation and continued collaboration to ensure minimum disruption for regional integration including associated cross border value chains," read the statement.

In addition, the meeting highlighted that these disruptions had a significant negative impact on the economies of both countries and also affected the free movement of people and goods between the two countries.

"Many companies have suffered losses as a result of the disruption in trade. Should the situation persist there is great danger of food and energy insecurity.

"In conclusion, the Ministers commended efforts undertaken by senior officials from various departments and agencies on both sides in mitigating the negative effects of the disruptions at the border to date," said the department.

Meanwhile, on Monday, the Border Management Authority (BMA) said the Lebombo port of entry was running smoothly as holiday movements increased.

According to the agency, the processing of cargo on both arrival and departure continues as normal, with efficient facilitation ensuring seamless movement of goods.

“Similarly, traveller movements in both directions are flowing without disruptions, reflecting the authority’s preparedness for the busy holiday season,” the BMA said.

IOL