Over 1,000 trucks processed at Lebombo border

Michael Masiapato, head of South Africa's Border Management Authority (BMA), confirmed that operations at the Mpumalanga crossing are running smoothly.  

The border post was temporarily closed earlier this month following violent post-election protests in Mozambique. 

The unrest erupted after the October 9 election, when the ruling Frelimo party’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, was declared the winner. 

Opposition groups disputed the results, alleging electoral fraud, leading to nationwide demonstrations that resulted in at least 30 deaths, including children, and disrupted regional trade and travel.  

The BMA suspended general cargo processing and passenger movements at the border during the protests, severely impacting a key trade route for goods such as coal and chrome from South Africa to Mozambique’s ports.  

Masiapato credited the deployment of Mozambican security forces for stabilising the situation.  

"The deployment of Mozambican security forces on the ground has maintained a steady posture, with preventative measures employed to mitigate risks. With the festive season fast approaching, we will continue to be guided by our Mozambican counterparts on daily operational activities affecting their side,” he said.  

He added that the Lebombo border is now processing travelers and cargo efficiently, but officials remain vigilant.  

"As of this morning, the current status at Lebombo is stable. However, we continue to monitor the situation on the Mozambican side, and should there be interruptions, we will reassess our operations within the ports.”  

Masiapato will remain on-site until December 25 to oversee the seamless facilitation of legitimate travelers as festive season traffic intensifies.  

The BMA has adjusted operational hours at several ports of entry to accommodate the expected surge in travelers. 

Officials anticipate over six million people will cross South Africa’s borders this festive season, marking the highest numbers since the COVID-19 pandemic.  

“We anticipate a full recovery to the pre-COVID number of more than six million people,” said Masiapato.  

The busiest ports of entry include OR Tambo International Airport, Beit Bridge, Lebombo, and land ports to neighboring countries such as Lesotho, eSwatini, Botswana, and Zimbabwe.  

To address this influx, the BMA has deployed additional resources at key border points.  

 “During the development of this plan, historical trends were considered, especially in areas requiring the deployment of additional resources,” Masiapato explained.  

With heightened security and increased staffing, officials aim to ensure smooth processing for both travelers and trade during this busy period.

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