Mozambican President Daniel Chapo is today in Cape Town, South Africa, for a working visit at the invitation of his South African counterpart, Cyril Ramaphosa. At the centre of the discussions are issues related to economic cooperation, with an emphasis on improving transport and logistics infrastructures between the two countries, which are fundamental for trade flows and regional development.
The Minister of Transport and Logistics, João Matlombe, according to a press release, said today that Mozambique and South Africa are committed to improving border integration and efficiency on the N4 Corridor, one of the main routes between the two countries. ‘We need to improve the speed of processing at the Ressano Garcia border. The integration of systems is urgent to allow for better cargo handling,’ he emphasised, referring to the delays that affect the entire logistics chain.
Another important item on the agenda is the possible transformation of the Ponta do Ouro border
into a commercial crossing point. According to Matlombe, ‘there is great potential on this border to facilitate trade between the two peoples’.
The interest of both governments is to maximise gains and stimulate economic flow in the region.
The railway sector also featured prominently in the talks between the delegations. In the last three years, the amount of cargo transported by rail in the Maputo Corridor has risen from 30 per cent to 50 per cent, thanks to investments in the Ressano Garcia/Maputo line. ‘We are investing around 200 million [US] dollars to expand the capacity of the container terminal at the Port of Maputo, as well as a further 180 million dollars for the coal terminal,’ said Matlombe.
Regarding rail passenger transport, the minister explained that the priority is to strengthen the infrastructure. ‘Passenger transport is a social component, but freight is the main focus. With the recent doubling of the line, we hope to improve frequencies and encourage use of the railway system,’ he said.
In the short term, the main expectation is the immediate integration of systems to increase logistical efficiency and generate greater tax revenues. ‘We already have the infrastructure ready for this integration on both sides. The only thing missing is the political decision,’ said the minister, emphasising the importance of concrete progress during this visit.
Strengthening cooperation between Mozambique and South Africa in the transport and logistics sector is a strategic step for regional economic growth. The meeting between the two heads of state could define new directions to facilitate trade and strengthen the historical ties and brotherhood between the two nations.
In addition, the modernisation of logistics and rail infrastructure is expected to boost bilateral trade and the economic integration of the southern region of the African continent. The efficient implementation of these projects could significantly reduce operating costs, making transport more accessible and agile for companies and citizens in both countries.
The meeting should also reinforce the importance of South African investment in Mozambique, particularly in the port sector. The geographical proximity and competitive advantages of the Port of Maputo make it a strategic outlet for South African goods, further strengthening the economic partnership between the two countries and increasing the potential for exports, the same press release said.
O País
