President Ramaphosa Arrives In Maputo To Strengthen Relations With Mozambique At Fourth Bi-National Commission

Maputo, Mozambique – 02 December 2025 – President Cyril Ramaphosa arrived in Maputo this afternoon for a two-day working visit aimed at deepening political, economic, and strategic cooperation between South Africa and Mozambique. The visit comes at the invitation of Mozambican President Daniel Fransisco Chapo, as the two nations convene the 4th Session of the South Africa–Mozambique Bi-National Commission (BNC) from 02–03 December 2025.

Upon arrival, President Ramaphosa received an official welcome and is scheduled to hold a tête-à-tête with President Chapo at the State House in Maputo later today. The meeting will set the tone for the BNC, which remains the highest structured bilateral mechanism between the two countries.

A Partnership Rooted in Shared History

South Africa and Mozambique enjoy historic fraternal ties forged during the struggle against colonialism and apartheid. Over the years, the two nations have built a robust and strategic partnership anchored in political solidarity, economic cooperation, regional security, and socio-economic development.

The BNC, co-chaired by both presidents, has been central to coordinating and advancing these relations. Since the Inaugural Session in 2015, the two countries have worked through this platform to review progress, expand cooperation, and address shared challenges. The current session follows previous meetings held in 2015, 2017, and 2022.

Strengthening Cooperation and Unlocking Economic Potential

On Wednesday, 03 December 2025, President Ramaphosa will officially open the 4th BNC in Maputo. The session will assess progress on decisions from the 3rd BNC, boost economic collaboration, identify new trade and investment opportunities, and deepen alignment on regional, continental, and global matters.

South Africa and Mozambique have signed more than 70 agreements and memoranda of understanding across key sectors such as agriculture, defence, border management, health, transport, labour, investment, and customs administration.

Economic ties remain strong: Mozambique is South Africa’s leading trading partner on the African continent. Trade volumes rose to R119.4 billion in 2024, up from R114 billion the previous year. South African exports also increased, reaching R19.4 billion in 2024. Globally, Mozambique ranked among South Africa’s top five export destinations last year.

Energy, Investment, and Regional Development in Focus

Following the BNC opening, President Ramaphosa will travel to Inhambane Province to officiate the launch of the Sasol Hydrocarbons Processing Integrated Infrastructure in Temane. This project marks a significant milestone in regional energy collaboration and industrial development.

The President will also address the South Africa–Mozambique Business Forum in Vilankulo, engaging the private sector on accelerating cross-border trade, investment facilitation, and job creation.

A High-Level Delegation

President Ramaphosa is accompanied by a high-powered ministerial delegation, reflecting the broad scope of bilateral cooperation. The delegation includes:

Advancing Regional Stability and Prosperity

The 4th Bi-National Commission underscores the commitment of South Africa and Mozambique to deepen collaboration and deliver tangible outcomes for their citizens. With strong historical ties, expanding economic interdependence, and shared regional priorities, the two countries continue to shape a future rooted in stability, prosperity, and mutual respect.

As the BNC convenes in Maputo, it reaffirms the enduring partnership between neighbouring nations whose destinies remain closely intertwined.