Maputo still on the alert list

(Image: Andrew Moir, via Wikimedia Commons)

"The government of Mozambique has reportedly indicated that the price hikes will not be reversed and although the authorities appear to have regained control of the situation, public frustration is likely to persist and further disturbances cannot be ruled out in the coming days," he said.

"Up to this point our clients in Mozambique have been well cared for, in the knowledge that that we were geared for any incident. We continue to monitor the situation closely and report on developments as they occur."

Be careful

Cornish advised that although travel to Maputo can continue, clients should minimise unnecessary movement in the capital whilst the situation remains tense.

"Violence can recur at a moment's notice. Tensions are still heightened, there is still a significant security force presence on the streets and further public disorder cannot be discounted. We advise members to access our website for information and avoid public gatherings or protest locations in particular.

"Persons scheduled to fly from Maputo should contact the relevant airline for the latest information on flight schedules and stay in their accommodation if their flights are not confirmed. They should also not travel on the airport road, Avenida de Mocambique, unless it is confirmed that the road is clear. People scheduled to fly to Maputo should contact their airline prior to departure and ensure that they have appropriate meet and greet services on arrival."

International SOS is an international healthcare, medical assistance and security services company.

Avoid sending your employees into harm's way

"The increased threat to business travellers heightens the liability of employers, who have a legal and moral duty of care for their employees, wherever they are based.

"Many organisations are operating across borders without fully understanding the obligations that surround duty of care, or are not providing the right level of care. Travel seems to be a blind spot when it comes to duty of care, compared to the health and safety procedures in the permanent workplace.

"The services we provide to clients are tailor-made for each individual organisation's specific needs. This approach has again proved successful for our clients in Maputo," he concluded.

Go to www.internationalsos.com for updates.