The Foreign Office has issued an urgent travel advisory for Brits considering visiting Mozambique amid significant political unrest. The FCDO urges against “all but essential travel” to Mozambique due to the volatile situation, with particular mention of travel disruptions including unexpected border closings that could also affect South Africa.
In its latest statement on December 30, the FCDO said: “Due to the ongoing unrest across Mozambique, FDCO currently advises against all but essential travel to Mozambique and continues to advise against all travel to parts of Mozambique. Essential travel may be disrupted, including delays or closures at the border at short notice.”
The advice also extends to cautioning against travel near the South Africa – Mozambique border. This follows events where over 1,500 inmates fled from a Mozambican jail this past December amidst the turmoil sparked by contentious electoral outcomes.
The country’s security forces confirmed a toll of 33 fatalities and 15 injuries stemming from altercations with prison guards. Police chief Bernardino Rafael, in a press briefing post the jailbreak, revealed the recapture of approximately 150 escapees.
Moreover, widespread demonstrations commenced on Monday after Mozambique’s Supreme Court upheld the victory of the long-standing ruling party Frelimo in the recent presidential contest. The FCDO expanded: “There is significant unrest across Mozambique which is expected to continue for the foreseeable future. Protests can be violent and occur at short notice.
“Police have used live ammunition, leading to civilians being killed and injured. There are increased incidents of criminality including looting, break-ins, and robberies.
“If you are in Mozambique, seek local advice and monitor the local media. Avoid large gatherings or demonstrations, pay attention to your surroundings and avoid travelling after dark. Roads, routes to airports and border crossings can quickly be restricted, blocked or closed, affecting services and transport nationwide.”
The “all but essential” travel warning applies to all of Mozambique. However, the FCDO has also advised against all travel to the following districts in Cabo Delgado Province due to attacks by groups with links to Islamist extremism.
The advice covers the districts of:
- Macomia
- Meluco
- Ibo, including the islands off the coast
- Quissanga
- Palma, except Palma town, where FCDO advises against all but essential travel
- Nangade
- Chiure
- Muidumbe
- Mocímboa da Praia
- Mueda
In reference to the impact of recent events on travel to South Africa, the FCDO said: “Unpredictable violence has occurred in the area around the Lebombo/Ressano Garcia land border with South Africa/Mozambique. Seek local advice, monitor the local media and FCDO’s travel advice for Mozambique before travel.”
You should always check FCDO advice for any country before travelling. Failing to do so could not only be unsafe but invalidate your travel insurance.