Resumption of operations at the Lebombo port of entry

Traveler movement at Mozambique’s Lebombo port of entry is now open until further notice, the Border Management Authority (BMA) announced on Thursday.

“The Acting Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Ms. Jane Thupana, has provided the latest update on the Lebombo port of entry, indicating that the movement of travelers is now open until further notice. order.

“Pedestrians and small vehicles are processed minimally, with statistics showing that 7,471 travelers were processed yesterday, December 11, 2024. Statistics indicate that movements are approximately 50% lower than they were at that time in December 2023,” the authority said in a statement. statement.

This after the BMA announced the temporary suspension of general cargo processing operations as well as passenger movements, due to the unrest that affected the Mozambican side on Monday.

On Thursday, the authority added that processing takes place mainly in the early hours and late afternoon, when unrest on the Mozambican side has subsided.

However, processing of goods remains suspended due to protesters blocking entry into Mozambique and the BMA is closely monitoring developments.

“The situation on the N4 corridor remains under close monitoring in order to minimize traffic jams. Trucking companies with facilities at Komatipoort are advised to divert their trucks to Komatipoort depots, while others may divert their trucks to the designated truck waiting area at km7. Carriers are continually advised not to send new vehicles to the port until further notice.

Acting Commissioner of the BMA, Ms Jane Thupana, reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to effectively manage and resolve challenges at the border.

“The BMA is working tirelessly with key stakeholders in the border management sector to manage the situation. We urge all relevant parties to be patient as we continue to monitor the situation and work with the relevant authorities to finding lasting solutions,” Thupana said. –SAnews.gov.za