Although Mozambique’s tourism industry is recovering, unlawful practices at its borders and on roads are deterring travellers driving to the country.

Figures released at the FIKANI International Tourism Expo revealed a 10% increase in tourism during 2023 but bribery, fake passport stamps and intimidation tactics discourage South Africans from embarking on the popular outbound road trip.

“Mozambique is at a crossroads in its efforts to revitalise tourism with challenges at its borders significantly impacting the experiences of incoming travellers. Among these challenges are bribery and extortion – practices that not only create obstacles but also foster a climate of intimidation,” said Sarah Bezuidenhout, Travel Manager and Senior Consultant at Go 2 Travel Alliance.

According to Bezuidenhout, South Africans driving into Mozambique encounter self-appointed agents who intimidate drivers into paying additional “taxes” (bribes) along the road between the Ressano Garcia border post and the main cities.

Threats to confiscate vehicles and accusations that vehicles are stolen are often issued to intimidate travellers into paying bribes.

“Such practices create a hostile environment and discourage visitors by road from exploring the country,” added Bezuidenhout.

Director of Dana Tours Natalie Tenzer-Silva revealed that another deceptive tactic used at the Ressano Garcia border was fake entry stamps in arriving travellers’ passports. Tenzer-Silva said it often paves the way for hefty fines on exit because travellers’ passports do not show evidence of registered entry into the country.

Bezuidenhout said: “These intimidation tactics not only damage Mozambique’s reputation as a tourist destination but also undermine the efforts of groups like Drive MOZ, which works to promote safe and enjoyable travel experiences in the country.

“The fear and uncertainty caused by these factors can deter travellers from even considering Mozambique as a destination, affecting the country’s economy and its efforts to build a sustainable tourism industry.”

Support limited by poor signal coverage

Bezuidenhout is part of the Drive MOZ support group, which provides travellers with assistance and advice when navigating Mozambique’s borders. However, the effectiveness of this support is often limited by poor signal coverage, she pointed out.

According to Bezuidenhout and other tourism players at FIKANI, the key to improving many aspects of the tourism industry, including borders, is better government regulation and education for local communities.

“The Mozambican government needs to take a firm stand against these practices by implementing stricter regulations and penalties for those found guilty of intimidation and bribery at the borders. Additionally, engaging local communities in tourism development and border management can foster a sense of ownership and responsibility, reducing the influence of rogue agents,” said Bezuidenhout.

Emidio Samuel Nhantumbo, Inhambane’s Provincial Director of Culture and Tourism, said educating local people about the benefits of tourism and addressing security issues will improve the country’s reputation and avoid generalisations about lack of safety and terrorism impacting the revival of tourism.

Communication is key

“The challenge in the meantime is making sure that we communicate with our potential tourists about the security issues we have in Mozambique and that this is only in certain districts such as the northern provinces. Once we overcome that challenge, we can attract tourists to the other provinces that are secure,” said Nhantumbo.

Collaboration with neighbouring countries will ensure a more seamless and corruption-free travel experience, enhancing regional tourism and economic growth, believes Bezuidenhout.

“By addressing these issues, Mozambique can ensure a welcoming environment for tourists, helping the country realise its full potential as a premier travel destination. With its natural beauty and cultural wealth, Mozambique deserves to be explored and enjoyed by visitors worldwide – free from the fear of intimidation and extortion.”