Online Reporter
THE INTERVIEW JOSEPH MADZIMURE
Mozambique and Zimbabwe share strong bilateral relations rooted in history, particularly their shared struggle against colonial rule and subsequent cooperation in the fight against RENAMO in Mozambique. While both countries face challenges, including low trade volumes, they are strategically committed to maintaining strong ties. They are both members of various regional and international organisations, including the African Union, United Nations and Southern African Development Community (SADC). Early this month, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, signed a landmark energy deal, solidifying a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to boost cooperation in the energy sector. This includes increasing Zimbabwe’s fuel imports from Mozambique and exploring joint projects in natural gas and electricity generation. The deal also seeks to improve energy security and infrastructure in Southern Africa. Zimpapers Politics Hub Senior Writer Joseph Madzimure (JM) recently had a conversation with Mozambique Ambassador to Zimbabwe Mr Carvalho Muária (CM). In the conversation, Madzimure sought to get the finer details on the current status of the bilateral relations between the two brotherly countries.
JM: In your view, how are relations between Mozambique and Zimbabwe?
CM: Under the leadership of Mozambique President Daniel Francisco Chapo, and President Mnangagwa, our countries are enjoying excellent relations as the two Governments are working tirelessly in the implementation of crucial projects such as those in the fields of energy, logistics, the corridors, the establishment of the One Stop Border Post at Machipanda and Forbes Border Posts, the Techobanine Port and railway which will include Botswana.
JM: What are the biggest challenges facing bilateral trade at the moment — for example, in terms of infrastructure, tariffs or bureaucracy?
CM: Despite the potential of trade between the two countries, bilateral trade remains low, in part due to the limited utilisation of the Beira Corridor, which requires revitalisation of its infrastructure to improve cargo management and reduce goods handling costs, as well as the pending implementation of the One Stop Border Post, which will enhance goods mobility, services and galvanise bilateral trade.
On infrastructure, there is inefficiencies in transportation (roads, bridges, ports, etc) and communication networks are also hindering smooth trade. Inadequate infrastructure increases shipping costs and delays, making trade less competitive.
The other issue is high import duties and tariffs, which act as barriers to trade by increasing the cost of imported goods, making them less competitive in the target market.
Another issue of concern is bureaucracy as a result of excessive paperwork, complex customs procedures, and regulatory hurdles that create delays and raise costs for businesses involved in bilateral trade.
This discourages businesses from engaging or reduce the volume of goods traded. These challenges can make bilateral trade costly, complex, and risky, potentially leading to reduced trade volumes and missed opportunities for businesses.
JM: Are there specific measures being taken by both governments to ease the movement of goods and services across shared borders, such as at Forbes-Machipanda?
CM: Both Governments are actively implementing a set of measures to ease the movement of goods and services across the shared borders, with Machipanda-Forbes Border Posts leading the way. The measures include and are not limited to Machipanda-Forbes Border Posts which are now operating 24 hours to reduce congestion and improve trade flow. This is part of a larger effort to address traffic bottlenecks and improve the overall efficiency of the border crossing.
We have been holding regular meetings to discuss transport and infrastructure cooperation. These discussions aim to fine-tune operational details and ensure smooth and uninterrupted cross-border trade.
JM: What efforts are underway to modernise or upgrade border facilities and transport infrastructure to support smoother trade flows?
CM: Both Governments are working to invest in infrastructure upgrades, simplifying regulations, and ensuring a more business-friendly environment at the borders, which include improving the existing and developing of new infrastructure. We have rehabilitated 318-kilometre railway line between Beira and Machipanda to reduce transport costs and ease congestion at the Machipanda-Forbes Border Posts in particular, which was done through a partnership between Mozambique Railways (CFM) and NRZ (Zimbabwe) to enhance regional connectivity by improving rail operations and reducing logistical bottlenecks.
We can’t over emphasise the need to enhance customs transparency, and expedite the flow of goods. Both Governments are seeking private sector investments in refurbishing the infrastructure.
JM: How can Zimbabwean businesses tap into Mozambique’s ports, particularly Beira, to enhance regional trade logistics?
CM: Zimbabwean businesses can enhance regional trade logistics by leveraging Mozambique’s ports, particularly Beira, through strategic partnerships and establish long-term relationships with government agencies and local businesses to navigate market complexities and build trust.
Local businesses can also support improvements on the Beira Corridor, including the railway system, to facilitate bulk transport of raw materials and reduce reliance on roads. They also need to work with relevant authorities in both countries to streamline customs procedures, reduce delays, and minimize bureaucratic hurdles.
Trading needs to target sectors like agriculture, where Zimbabwean expertise and products can address Mozambique’s challenges, offering seeds, chemicals, and other agricultural implements.
ZimTrade can also assist Zimbabwean businesses in accessing Mozambican markets and building relationships. It is worth noting that recently, a ZimTrade team undertook a market scan mission to Beira, with the report of the findings set to be disseminated on May 29, 2025, where various stakeholders will be present, including myself, to witness the results of that important exercise.
I thus call upon all the Zimbabwean business fraternity to merge synergies with initiatives being promoted by ZimTrade and other institutions to maximise trade not only at bilateral level, but also to expand in the SADC region and beyond.
JM: Can you provide updates on any cross-border energy deals, such as power exports from Mozambique to Zimbabwe?
CM: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in May 2025 to deepen cooperation in electricity, petroleum, and renewable energy. This agreement includes increasing Zimbabwe’s fuel imports from Mozambique and exploring joint projects in natural gas and electricity generation. Zimbabwe is expected to increase its annual fuel imports from Mozambique from 3 billion to 5 billion litres through the Mozambique pipeline.
The MoU also covers cooperation in electricity generation, transmission, and trading. The energy pact is a step towards regional integration and sustainable energy development. The agreement aims to foster collaboration in renewable energy projects and identify areas for joint project development in natural gas and electricity generation.
JM: How important is Zimbabwe’s support to Mozambique’s internal security and reconstruction efforts in Cabo Delgado?
CM: Zimbabwe’s support is crucial for Mozambique’s internal security and reconstruction efforts in Cabo Delgado.
Zimbabwe’s involvement, particularly through SADC, is a key factor in ensuring the long-term stability and development of both countries and the region, considering that Zimbabwe has historically played a role in regional security through SADC and other mechanisms. Therefore, its support to Mozambique in Cabo Delgado is a continuation of that commitment.
Zimbabwe’s involvement in Cabo Delgado is not just about supporting Mozambique, it is also a long-term security investment for the stability not only for Mozambique, but also for Zimbabwe and the entire SADC Region.
Zimbabwe’s support is also vital for the reconstruction efforts in Cabo Delgado. The conflict has displaced many, and Zimbabwe’s involvement in providing humanitarian assistance and supporting the local efforts for the restoration of infrastructure and livelihoods is essential for the long-term recovery for Mozambique.
JM: What role do Mozambique and Zimbabwe play in transboundary conservation efforts such as the Great Limpopo Trans frontier Park?
CM: Mozambique and Zimbabwe are key players in transboundary conservation efforts like the Great Limpopo Trans frontier Park (GLTP), working together to manage shared natural resources and promote wildlife corridors.
These efforts involve collaboration on resource management, infrastructural development, and policy harmonisation. The GLTP aims to facilitate regional conservation and socio-economic development through cross-border tourism and other initiatives.
JM: Since your posting in Zimbabwe, what has stood out for you about this country and its people?
CM: Since my arrival in Zimbabwe, the natural beauty and dramatic landscapes of the country, from Victoria Falls to the mighty Zambezi River, the various national parks, showcase the country’s natural splendour and lasting impression.
The warmth and peace-loving sense of the people also stood out. The Zimbabweans maintain a remarkable spirit of optimism, community and resilience.
Zimbabwean culture is vibrant and rich, with diverse traditions and a strong sense of history. The country’s cultural heritage, including the Great Zimbabwe, is a reminder of its past and a source of pride for its people. These attributes make me feel at home away from home.
JM: Thank you your Excellency.
