Mozambique

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Do not travel to the districts of Chiure, Anacuabe, Macomia, Metuge, Quissanga, Mueda, Nangade, Palma, Mocimboa da Praia, Muidumbe, Meluco, Macomia, Quissanga and Ibo in Cabo Delgado province, including the islands off the coast, due to ongoing violent clashes and terrorism (level 4 of 4).

Do not travel to the districts of Erati and Memba in Nampula province due to ongoing violent clashes and terrorism (level 4 of 4).

Avoid non-essential travel to the rest of Cabo Delgado province, including Pemba City, due to ongoing violent clashes and terrorism (level 3 of 4).

Exercise increased caution elsewhere in Mozambique due to violent crime and terrorism (level 2 of 4).

Mozambique

Terrorism
There is a very high threat from terrorism, especially in certain parts of the Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces. Terrorists are likely to target foreigners and foreign interests, including in towns and other areas where foreign companies operate.

Groups with links to Islamist extremism have carried out attacks in Cabo Delgado since late 2017, with attacks reported in the districts of Palma, Mocimboa da Praia, Macomia, Nangade, Quissanga, Muidumbe, Meluco, Ancuabe, Metuge, Ibo and Mueda, including the islands off the coast.

In October 2017, armed clashes took place between security forces and militants in the town of Mocimboa da Praia in Cabo Delgado province. There has been an increased security presence in the area following these clashes, including road blocks in some areas.  In 2021, dozens of people were killed in a large-scale attack in Palma, Cabo Delgado Province.  

We advise New Zealanders to remain vigilant at all times. New Zealanders in areas affected by violence are advised to monitor local media for the latest information on possible curfews and restrictions on movement, and follow any advice from local authorities.

Crime
Violent crime, such as muggings, armed robbery and carjacking occurs in Mozambique and petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching is common in Maputo and other cities. New Zealanders in Mozambique are advised to be security conscious at all times, avoid walking and travelling at night, and take steps to secure personal belongings.

Kidnapping for financial gain has occurred in Mozambique, especially in the larger cities such as Maputo, Matola and Biera. Although the majority of victims have been Mozambican nationals, foreigners have also been targeted for their perceived wealth.

Civil Unrest
We advise New Zealanders to avoid areas affected by civil unrest and to follow the advice of local authorities at all times.

Tensions remain between government forces and opposition party militia, particularly in the provinces of Manica, Tete, and Zambezia. Armed attacks on vehicles travelling on main roads in these provinces have occurred and checkpoints are routinely set up by opposition party militia. If travelling in these provinces you should seek local advice prior to travelling, monitor local media and carry relevant documents at all times.

Demonstrations and protests occur from time to time in Mozambique, including in Maputo. New Zealanders in Mozambique are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and large gatherings as they have the potential to turn violent. 

Local Travel
Carjackings have occurred, particularly in Maputo, and on routes to Zimbabwe and South Africa. When travelling by car, it is advisable to keep doors locked and windows up at all times. New Zealanders should avoid travelling alone, after dark and to isolated areas, including beaches.

Checkpoints are common throughout Mozambique and we advise New Zealanders to comply with instructions issued by police at checkpoints and produce identification if asked. Police officers have been known to solicit bribes. If you are stopped by the police, ask for an explanation of the offence and request a written fine which can be paid at the local police station.

Mozambique declared itself free of all known landmines in 2015, however, mines may still exist in remote and rural areas in central and southern provinces. You should seek advice from local authorities if travelling to these areas.

General Travel Advice
Health services are generally poor, particularly in rural areas, and serious illness or injury may require medical evacuation to South Africa.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Mozambique should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

New Zealanders in Mozambique are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

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The New Zealand High Commission Pretoria, South Africa is accredited to Mozambique

Street Address 125 Middel Street, Nieuw Muckleneuk, 0181 Pretoria, South Africa Postal Address Private Bag X27, Brooklyn Square 0075, Pretoria, South Africa Telephone +27 12 435 9000 Email enquiries@nzhc.co.za Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/south-africa Hours Mon – Fri 0800 – 1630hrs

See our regional advice for Africa