Niël Terblanché
The Namibian Revolutionary Transport Union (Naretu) has issued a stern warning to Namibian truck drivers, advising them to avoid crossing into Mozambique due to escalating post-election violence currently underway in the East African country.
Naretu’s president, Petersen Kambinda reported that on Wednesday at least one Namibian truck was torched at the Lebombo border crossing by looters targeting cargo vehicles entering and exiting Mozambique.
“One of our drivers was forced out of his truck during the early hours of this morning and was only allowed to remove his personal documents and belongings before the looters set the vehicle on fire,” Kambinda said.
He added that the attack left the driver stranded without means to return home.
“Our drivers face severe risks by just being in the vicinity of the border crossing, highlighting the severe risks faced by transport operators in the region.
Kambinda said the closure of the border crossing will have serious implications for regional trade and logistics, affecting transport routes that are vital for the movement of goods between Namibia, South Africa, and Mozambique.
He expressed concern over the lack of visible engagement from the Namibian government regarding the crisis.
“What is most worrying about the situation is the fact that there is currently no visible engagement from the Namibian government’s side and no advice has been made available from them,” he said.
He added that the ongoing violence not only endangers truck drivers but also threatens the broader Southern African economy, particularly sectors reliant on cross-border trade.
“Naretu has instructed its members to refuse any directives to cross into Mozambique until the situation stabilizes,” he said.
Kambinda assured drivers that the union would support them in prioritizing their safety over operational demands.
“No driver, now a member of the union, should endanger his life and should not fear any retribution from the employers,” he added.
The violent unrest in Mozambique stems from disputed general elections held on 9 October 2024, which saw the ruling Frelimo party claim victory amid allegations of electoral fraud by opposition groups.
The aftermath has been marked by widespread protests and violence, with reports indicating that at least 24 people have died in the ensuing chaos.
News24 reported that the South African Border Management Authority (BMA) closed the Lebombo port of entry on Tuesday night following violent protests in Mozambique.
BMA commissioner Michael Masiapato confirmed there was an outbreak of violence at Ressano Garcia, a small area in Maputo Province located close to the Lebombo port of entry.
He said the South African side was not affected, but safety measures needed to be taken.
“Some buildings have been set alight. At the moment we are working on securing the Lebombo border as well as the safety of all cross-border transporters, travellers, traders and officials operating at the port. The border will be closed,” he told News24.
He said seven Mozambican police officers had taken refuge with the South African border security and were being assisted by officials on the ground.
He urged stakeholders to monitor the situation closely and prioritize safety in all cross-border operations.