The number of cargo trucks crossing Mozambique has plummeted from 38,000 to under 10,000 monthly due to post-election protests, significantly impacting trade and local families reliant on informal commerce. This decline has resulted in substantial economic losses, particularly for South Africa, with far-reaching implications across Southern Africa. Conflicts at border crossings have exacerbated the situation further.
Recent reports indicate a significant decline in the number of trucks transporting goods through Mozambique from the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Following post-election protests occurring mainly from October to December 2024, cargo truck crossings have dropped dramatically from 38,000 to under 10,000 per month, as stated by CTA’s executive director, Eduardo Sengo.
Mozambique plays a crucial logistical role for landlocked countries, with approximately 70% of goods destined for SADC nations transiting through its borders. The reduced truck traffic has resulted in substantial economic repercussions, particularly for South Africa, which incurred an estimated loss of 143 billion rand—or about 7% of its exports—due to these restrictions.
The downturn in regional trade not only affects international commerce but also has severe implications for local families in Mozambique. Sengo emphasized that 31% of trade between Mozambique and South Africa is informal, leaving households reliant on this trade struggling to meet basic needs amid the disruptions.
The protests also saw disruptions at key transit points, with blockades and incidents of truck looting reported along the Ressano Garcia border. This border is vital for socio-economic exchanges between Mozambique and South Africa, highlighting the critical nature of maintaining open and secure trade routes.
The decline in truck traffic can be directly linked to the civil unrest in Mozambique, particularly around the election period. These events coincide with increased logistical challenges, such as road blockades on the N4 highway at the Ressano Garcia border, the primary crossing between Mozambique and South Africa. The economic impact extends beyond immediate losses to trade, affecting families who depend heavily on this informal commerce for their livelihoods, compounded by the risks of looting and vandalism during protests.
In summary, the decline in truck traffic through Mozambique caused by post-election protests poses severe economic challenges both regionally and locally. With significant repercussions for trade and informal families, the situation highlights the importance of stabilizing political conditions to protect socio-economic interests. The overall health of logistics and trade networks in Southern Africa is crucial for economic growth and regional cooperation.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
