
Mozambique’s Maputo port saw a 1% decline in cargo volumes in 2024, as post-election unrest disrupted operations significantly.
The protests erupted following the disputed October 9 election, which saw President Daniel Chapo and his Frelimo party retain power.
Opposition-led demonstrations led to border closures and widespread road blockages, leaving over 300 people dead in clashes with security forces.
Cargo volumes at Maputo, the nation’s largest port, dropped to 30.9 million metric tons in 2024, down from a record 31.2 million metric tons the previous year.
The Maputo Port Development Company (MPDC) attributed this decline to the prolonged disruptions caused by the protests.
“The post-electoral unrest, including road blockages and border closures, severely impacted operations in the Maputo corridor for over a month,” MPDC stated.
The rail corridor connecting South Africa to Mozambique also suffered significant setbacks, compounded by derailments in October and November.
These incidents halted rail services for an entire month, further affecting cargo flows.
Despite the setbacks, Maputo remains a key hub for commodity exports, handling goods such as coal, chrome, copper, and grains like maize and wheat.
Exporters increasingly favor the port to avoid logistical challenges in South Africa.
The MPDC, a consortium including DP World, South Africa’s Grindrod Ltd, and Mozambique’s state-owned rail operator, continues to invest in the port.
An expansion plan aims to increase its capacity from 37 million to 58 million tons by 2058.