Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to Cabo Delgado province due to ongoing violent clashes.

Exercise increased caution

Exercise increased caution elsewhere in Mozambique due to violent crime and civil unrest.  

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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 and take steps to secure personal belongings.

Kidnapping for financial gain has occurred in Mozambique. Although the majority of victims have been Mozambican nationals, foreigners have also been targeted.

Civil Unrest
In October 2017, armed clashes took place between security forces and militants in the town of Mocimba 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 late May 2018, further violent attacks were reported in Cabo Delgado province. 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, Sofala, 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 Mupato, 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

• For current health alerts

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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 Fax +27 12 435 9002 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