Over 52,000 travellers processed at Lebombo port of entry over the weekend

Over 52,000 travellers processed at Lebombo port of entry over the weekend! The Border Management Authority (BMA) has assured the public that operations at the Lebombo port of entry between South Africa and Mozambique are running smoothly, with no significant incidents reported.

This is despite recent disruptions caused by violent protests in Mozambique following the country’s disputed presidential election on October 9.

Seamless Movement of Goods and Travellers

Providing an update on Sunday, Dr. Michael Masiapato, commissioner of the BMA, confirmed that both goods and people were being processed efficiently at the port.

“The processing of cargo on both arrival and departure continues as normal, with efficient facilitation ensuring seamless movement of goods,” said Masiapato. “Similarly, traveller movements in both directions are flowing without disruptions, reflecting the authority’s preparedness for the busy holiday season.”

The Lebombo port of entry, which connects South Africa to Mozambique via the N4 corridor, has been under close scrutiny due to safety concerns in the neighboring country. However, Masiapato highlighted that traffic backlogs on the corridor and the N4 road had been successfully cleared.

Increased Traveller Activity

Masiapato reported that the weekend of December 13 to December 15 saw heightened activity at the port, with 52,252 travellers processed. This surge is a clear indication of the increased movement as South Africa enters its peak holiday travel season.

The commissioner reaffirmed the BMA’s readiness to handle the increased demand efficiently. “We remain vigilant and fully equipped to maintain this level of efficiency while continuing to monitor operations closely,” he said.

Collaboration with Key Stakeholders

The BMA has emphasized its collaboration with other entities, including law enforcement authorities and the South African Revenue Service (SARS), to ensure smooth operations at the border.

“We are working with stakeholders to ensure that trade and travel through Lebombo are handled with maximum efficiency and minimal delays,” said Masiapato.

He also appreciated the cooperation of travellers and stakeholders, urging them to adhere to border regulations to maintain the current level of efficiency.

Safety Concerns in Mozambique

In recent months, the Lebombo port of entry has faced temporary closures due to the escalating violence and protests in Mozambique. The unrest followed a contentious election, sparking clashes in several cities.

In November, safety concerns prompted the port’s temporary closure, with 15 Mozambican port officials seeking refuge on the South African side during one such incident. At that time, the BMA took precautionary measures to ensure the safety of travellers and goods.

Preparedness for the Holiday Season

As the holiday season brings a surge in cross-border activity, the BMA has reinforced its operational readiness to handle the influx. Masiapato stated that the authority remains committed to maintaining efficiency while addressing any evolving challenges.

He encouraged the public to report suspicious activities at the port of entry by contacting the BMA’s toll-free hotline at 0801 229 019.

“Given the dynamic nature of operations on the ground, the BMA remains committed to providing timely updates as the situation evolves,” said Masiapato.

A Critical Gateway for Trade and Travel

The Lebombo port of entry is a crucial hub for trade and travel in southern Africa, serving as a major link between South Africa and Mozambique. Its efficient operation is essential for facilitating the seamless movement of goods, supporting regional economies, and ensuring traveller safety.

The BMA’s proactive measures, combined with collaboration with key stakeholders, have helped stabilize operations despite challenges from external factors such as political unrest.

Public Cooperation is Key

As the festive season continues, the BMA has called on all travellers to:

• Plan their journeys in advance.
• Adhere to all customs and border regulations.
• Stay informed about any updates or advisories issued by the BMA.

With increased activity expected throughout the holiday season, the authority remains vigilant in ensuring that the Lebombo port of entry continues to function efficiently, safeguarding both trade and travel in the region.

Conclusion

The smooth operations at the Lebombo port of entry underscore the effectiveness of the BMA’s holiday season safety and efficiency measures. Through ongoing collaboration, vigilance, and public cooperation, the authority is poised to manage the anticipated holiday influx while addressing any emerging challenges at this critical border post.