SA TO REDIRECT MOZ TRAFFIC TO MANANGA BORDER

MANANGA – Tomorrow will be a significant day for Mozambicans, as South Africa plans to redirect traffic through the Mananga Border Gate amid a dispute over election verdicts.

What does this mean for travellers and locals?
This decision comes after an urgent meeting held yesterday between the South African Border Management Authority (BMA) and Eswatini’s Ministry of Home Affairs. Officials gathered on the South African side of the Mananga border to discuss the situation and plan a way forward in light of potential unrest. Mozambicans typically prefer using the Lebombo Border due to its efficiency and larger capacity. However, concerns about escalating protests related to an impending court decision have prompted authorities to take pre-emptive measures to avoid a situation similar to what occurred when the protests first began around December 14.

Dr Michael Masiapato, Chief Executive Officer of the BMA, addressed journalists during a press briefing following a one-hour meeting and tour of the border. The briefing took place after an urgent meeting between the two countries and was attended by media personnel from both South Africa and Eswatini. Masiapato explained that the potential for unrest arises from opposition factions that may reject the court’s ruling if it upholds the current electoral results. “Protesters are likely to target the Lebombo Border since it primarily facilitates cargo transport,” he said.“Redirecting traffic to Mananga will allow for safer travel for Mozambicans returning home for the festive season.”

Traffic

The anticipated surge in traffic at Mananga has raised concerns about the border’s capacity to manage the influx. Currently, the border operates from 7am to 6pm, but Masiapato indicated that the hours could extend to 8pm to accommodate the increased demand. He emphasised that Mananga’s ability to adapt to the shift would help minimise disruptions for travellers.
When asked whether trucks would also be rerouted, Masiapato explained that cargo transport typically slows down during the festive season, as production facilities and mines close during this time.

Perishables

However, trucks carrying perishables may still be redirected to Mananga. “The redirection plan primarily targets passenger vehicles, as most cargo operations cease during this period,” he clarified. Eswatini’s Chief Immigration Officer, Mthokozisi Dlamini, shared Masiapato’s confidence, stating: “We are prepared to handle the additional traffic on our side of the border. We have measures in place to ensure a smooth process for all travellers.”  This is not the first time the Mananga Border Gtate has managed significant volumes of trucks; similar situations occurred last year as well.

“Officials from both countries toured border structures to assess potential bottlenecks and develop strategies for maintaining order. A key focus of this visit was ensuring the safety of both travellers and staff amid the expected increase in foot traffic. The meeting concluded with a joint commitment to implement the redirection plan effectively. In related news, there are concerns that political unrest in Mozambique may lead to protests targeting the Lomahasha Border Gate, one of the key entry points between Eswatini and Mozambique.

As tensions rise in anticipation of tomorrow’s Constitutional Court verdict on the election dispute, authorities are preparing for possible disruptions. Chief Immigration Officer Mthokozisi Dlamini assured the public that Eswatini is ready for any eventualities. “We have contingency plans in place should the border need to close,” he stated. “Our focus remains on ensuring the safe and efficient movement of travellers.”

Holidaymakers

Dr Masiapato, CEO of South Africa’s BMA, initially downplayed the likelihood of disruptions at Lomahasha, noting that it is primarily used by holidaymakers rather than for cargo transport. However, he did not rule out the possibility entirely. “If protests escalate, other ports, including one inside the Kruger National Park, can be utilised to facilitate travel for Mozambicans returning home,” he added. Masiapato emphasised the existence of alternative borders that are less likely to be affected by the potential unrest. “We are confident in our ability to smoothly redirect traffic if the need arises,” he stated. Immigration officers, who requested to remain anonymous, expressed concerns about handling an increased volume of travellers. “Large groups of travellers from Mozambique often push their way through, creating chaotic scenes,” one official mentioned. “At times, we have to close doors to prevent overcrowding.”

Unrest

The potential for unrest has made some officers cautious about the challenges ahead. However, they expressed confidence in the measures being implemented to minimise any disruptions.
Meanwhile, at Mananga, vendors are cautiously optimistic about the expected increase in traffic. “If more people come through here, it could mean better sales for us,” one vendor noted.
However, others are frustrated by the current restrictions on cross-border trade. “We can’t go to Mozambique to restock, and that’s hurting our businesses,” another vendor added.
Despite the uncertainty, the collaboration among regional authorities shows a strong commitment to managing the situation effectively. As the Constitutional Court’s decision draws near, attention is focused on Mozambique and its borders, with authorities ready to adapt to any challenges that may arise.

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