South Africa’s main border crossing with Mozambique, a key hub for coal and chrome exports, has been suspended due to election-related protests in Mozambique.
Demonstrators on the Mozambican side have blocked the route, which typically processes over 1,000 trucks daily en route to Maputo’s port.
The Lebombo border port of entry has halted operations for general cargo processing and passenger movements, according to South Africa’s Border Management Authority.
The protests, sparked by the October 9 elections, have also forced authorities to shut two power plants and targeted other critical infrastructure.
The closure is expected to cost South Africa R10 million daily, with the Road Freight Association warning of reduced foreign exchange earnings for Mozambique.
Election unrest has plagued Mozambique since October 21, with local groups reporting over 100 deaths as police crack down on demonstrators with tear gas and live bullets. Opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane, who claims to have won the presidential vote, has been behind the calls for protest.
