The Lebombo border with Mozambique has reopened to travelers, but with limited operations, according to an announcement by the Border Management Authority (BMA) on Thursday.
Jane Thupana, the BMA’s acting commissioner, confirmed that pedestrian and small vehicle processing resumed on a restricted scale.
Statistics showed that 7,471 travelers were processed on December 11, reflecting a 50% drop in movement compared to the same period in 2023.
This partial reopening follows a temporary suspension of general cargo and passenger processing due to civil unrest on the Mozambican side of the border.
The BMA noted that processing primarily occurs during early mornings and late afternoons when tensions on the Mozambican side ease.
However, cargo processing remains suspended as protesters continue to block entry points into Mozambique.
The authority stated it is closely monitoring the situation on the N4 corridor to manage congestion. Trucking companies with facilities in Komatipoort have been urged to divert trucks to local depots, while others are advised to use the designated holding area at KM7.
“Transporters are continuously urged not to dispatch new vehicles to the port until further notice,” the BMA said.
Thupana emphasized the BMA’s dedication to resolving the challenges at the border.
“The BMA is working tirelessly with key stakeholders in the border management sector to address the situation.
We urge all affected parties to exercise patience as we engage with relevant authorities to find lasting solutions,” she stated.
The situation remains under review, with the BMA and its partners striving to restore full functionality to the border crossing.
