Possibility of unrest in Mozambique highlighted as an issue as SA remains on high alert

JOHANNESBURG - The possibility of further unrest in Mozambique has been highlighted as an issue of national security as South African authorities remain on high alert.

On Monday, the Mozambican Constitutional Council will announce the outcome of the country's October presidential election results - following a recount and verification process due to claims of voter rigging.

The issue has seen the country cast into turmoil as all freight and business operations in Maputo were brought to a standstill.

But the corridor between SA and Mozambique isn’t just a vital passage for the export of minerals.

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The N4 corridor between South Africa and Mozambique is a key passage for the freight industry, carrying chrome, coal, and other minerals to the port of Maputo.

But what lies beneath the surface is even more vital.

A gas pipeline stretching 865km from Mozambique is responsible for supplying 90% of South Africa's gas.

Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) Minister Ronald Lamola emphasised how crucial it was to protect the corridor.

"In terms of energy security, this corridor is very important for South Africa as you are aware, for petroleum products and for gas, through the pipeline. So, this meeting has also looked at mitigating measures in that regard."

Lamola was speaking in Mpumalanga following a bilateral engagement with Mozambican authorities on Wednesday.