MOZAMBIQUE RISK REPORT

Threat level: Low-Medium
The current travel advice for Mozambique is to remain cautious as there is a general threat of terrorism that is a particular risk to western travellers. Crime rates are at a high percentage in certain areas of the country, but most visits to the country are relatively trouble free.

Corruption is common among the Mozambique Police force. Some visitors have reported being victims of police harassment, including robbery or requests for bribes.

Recent security risk events
Maputo the capital of Mozambique has experienced a recent increase of kidnappings of Mozambican nationals and foreign travellers. Be vigilant at all times and avoid walking alone at night, particularly near beaches or offshore islands as they are not policed.

There have been a number of recent incidents of armed bandits operating between Boane and the Swaziland border crossing points of Namaacha and Goba. Be vigilant if you are travelling by road to Swaziland, you should avoid this route altogether unless absolutely necessary.

Security Risks
There has been an increase in reports of hijacking of motor vehicles, particularly hire vehicles in the Maputo region. It is advised that your car doors locked whilst driving in busy areas and do not leave valuables unattended in your vehicle.

If you are planning on leaving the main tourist destinations, you should be particularly vigilant and remain on high alert at all times as security levels are not so high. It is recommended that you do not travel at night as doing so can make you vulnerable and easy targets.

Petty crime often occurs in the capital city and other large urban areas. This can be avoided by taking basic security precautions and keeping important documents and valuable objects somewhere safe, preferably in a safe in your accommodation. Do not carry large sums of cash or withdraw large amounts if at all possible.

International relations
Mozambique is a member of the Non-Aligned Movement, United Nations and other international organizations. Diplomatic relationships between the United States and Mozambique are good and steadily improving.

The EU, Scandinavians, Netherlands and other countries have all become important sources of development assistance in Mozambique.

It has upheld good relations with Portugal since gaining its independence from them in 1975, with Portuguese companies being one of the biggest investors in the country. In 2008, Portugal wiped Mozambique’s debts to it which was thought to be nearly $400 million. The two countries are working together to try and support investments in the Mozambican energy sector.

Travel considerations
You can drive in Mozambique with most national driving licences, including UK, EU and U.S. licences for up to 90 days. The road conditions in Mozambique are for the most part very poor, particularly outside of the main cities, and the average driving standard is also very poor.

It is advised to only travel by road outside Maputo and other major cities during daylight. The main roads in Manica, Sofala, Tete and Zambezia have experienced armed attacks on vehicles recently. Be cautious when driving in these areas and ensure that you have the relevant vehicles documents with you at all times. The local media should also provide you with any relevant travel news.