Video: Cargo operations resume at Lebombo Port of Entry

Cargo operations have resumed following the partial reopening of the Lebombo Port of Entry today.

The port had been closed for several days this week due to political riots in neighbouring Mozambique.

The Border Management Authority (BMA), in partnership with the South African Revenue Service (Sars), is working to clear the cargo backlog.

“The port is now open for cargo movement after the Mozambican authorities managed to address challenges with their systems to facilitate processing through the Ressano Garcia Port of Entry into Mozambique,” said the BMA and SARS in a joint statement signed by BMA deputy commissioner Mmemme Mogotsi and SARS spokesperson Siphithi Sibeko.

[WATCH] Trucks slowly move to Lebombo border gate
Some of them have been here since Tuesday. The BMA says movement for cargo is open as Mozambican authorities managed to sort out challenges with their systems to facilitate processing at Ressano Garcia to Mozambique. #sabcnews pic.twitter.com/8P0XmX0ph0

— Nhlanhla Jele (@Nhlajules) November 9, 2024

BMA commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato said he was pleased that systems have been restored.

“We are pleased to announce that the Mozambican systems have been restored, with processing activities resuming at the KM4 checkpoint on the Mozambican side. This development paves the way for the full reopening of the port and enables the BMA and Sars teams to work diligently in clearing the current cargo backlog,” said Masiapato.

He reminded travellers to remain cautious and stay informed of travel updates when planning trips to Mozambique.

#TRACN4route #Update at 09/11 #GOODNEWS: BMA PARTIALLY REOPENS LEBOMBO port of entry allowing movement excluding Cargo #Mozambique #Maputo #RessanoGarcia.

— TRAC N4 Toll Route (@TRACN4route) November 9, 2024

The BMA and SARS assured that they would continue monitoring the situation closely, ensuring smooth and secure port operations for the benefit of all South African citizens and the broader trade community.

Meanwhile, Trans African Concessions (TRAC) spokesperson Solange Soares told this publication that TRAC managed to assist stranded truckers during the backlog that stretched many kilometres along the N4 highway towards the Lebombo Port of Entry.

“We dished out necessary supplies to the truckers who spent days stranded along the N4 highway on the South African side, just to help,” said Soares.