Demonstration Alert: Mozambique, December

Location: Mozambique, including international border crossings and Maputo International Airport.

Event:  Protests, roadblocks, looting, and civil unrest related to national election results are expected to continue throughout the holiday season, beginning December 17.  

Police regularly fire tear gas, rubber bullets, and live ammunition to disperse crowds. Many protest events have seen large groups blocking roads and stopping vehicle traffic. Cars have been attacked and vehicle occupants forced to pay sums of money to continue safely or forced to turn around.  In addition, there have been temporary closures of major roads and toll gates across Mozambique. Entry and exit to Maputo International Airport and regional airports may be temporarily blocked due to protests and physical barriers. Land border crossings to neighboring South Africa and eSwatini have been similarly blocked, and these may happen at border crossings with Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Tanzania. Closures are likely to be sporadic and last several hours.  

With little to no notice, travel in and around Maputo and other cities in Mozambique can become dangerous, especially at night.  

 U.S. Embassy personnel are advised to reconsider travel plans outside of Maputo Province during the holiday season and are prohibited from driving outside major cities after dark.   

The U.S. Embassy remains open for routine U.S. citizen services. However, routine visa services are closed.  

Actions to Take:  

• Reconsider travel to Mozambique. 

• Minimize unnecessary movements. 

• Avoid all but emergency travel between sunset and sunrise. 

• Avoid crowds. 
• Maintain a low profile and carry proper identification. 
• Review your personal security plans. 

• Notify friends and family of your safety.

• Remain aware of your surroundings.

• Monitor local media for updates.