Costs for Security Services and Private Guards

The Price of Peace of Mind: Costs for Security Services and Private Guards 

Security: A Personal Calculation in Maputo and beyond

When it comes to safety in Maputo, security is a very personal issue, often closely related to individual fears and characteristics. The reality of insecurity across Maputo is multi-layered, ranging from pervasive petty crime to the severe threat of kidnapping for ransom targeting those perceived as wealthy.

This disparity in risk leads to highly varied personal responses to security:

• Some expats may feel "pretty safe" in upper-middle-class areas like Avenida Julius Nyerere, feeling that Maputo is like any other city in the world where safety depends on the location. 
• Others find the generalized threat landscape nerve-wracking. Due to the high risk of  crime and the unreliability of the police (who are often accused of corruption and extortion), these individuals may choose comprehensive private protection. The reliance on private security is widespread among foreign nationals and wealthy individuals. This includes living in gated compounds, employing security guards, and obtaining Kidnap and Ransom (K&R) insurance which provides 24/7 access to crisis response consultants.

Ultimately, the best strategy is based on an individual risk assessment. Whether you adopt a low-profile approach, focusing on situational awareness, or invest heavily in a secure living environment and specialized protection, the appropriate security strategy is an individual one that aligns with your comfort level and risk tolerance.

1. Cost of Enhanced Residential Security

The first major security expense comes directly through accommodation choices and required property upgrades.

Gated Communities and Rent Premiums

Due to concerns about safety, many expats opt for residences located inside gated compounds or secure compounds. Since there is often a limited supply of high-security housing options, the rents for these types of properties tend to be higher.

Tenant-Funded Property Improvements

Tenants often incur costs to upgrade their housing security, as landlords typically do not support these additions. If you rent a property, you may need to budget for the installation of security improvements yourself, such as:

• fences
• Safety bars
• Safety doors
• Alarms
• Back-up generators (often used for both security and unreliable electricity).

These expenses, combined with other additional charges like maintenance fees, internet connectivity, and parking, can add $50–$200 monthly to your overall housing expenses, depending on the property's location and amenity level.

2. Costs for Private Guards and Household Staff

While specific salaries for professional private security guards are not broadly reported, we can estimate typical costs based on the rates for other household staff commonly employed by expats.

• Reliance on Private Staff: Expats frequently employ various forms of domestic help, including empregadas (maids), gardeners, drivers, and nannies. These services are generally seen as reliable private sector alternatives to unreliable public services.
• Monthly Salary Benchmarks: Salaries for household staff often set the baseline for non-specialized, residential security personnel. The cost for a full-time Empregada (maid) has been reported to be around US $200–$250 per month. Some expats reported paying as high as US $350 per month for a full-time maid. Nannies (Babas) and drivers can sometimes be hired for even lower amounts.
• Community Contributions: In certain communities, local initiatives for self-policing require financial contributions. For instance, in Nacala, families contribute 500 meticais per month to pay those who patrol neighborhoods.

3. Specialized Security and Crisis Management Costs

Due to the enduring threat of serious organized crime, particularly kidnapping, expats often invest in specialized security training and insurance.

Hiring Specialized Security Firms

For travel into high-risk areas, such as parts of Cabo Delgado, Niassa, and Nampula Provinces, the official recommendation is to consider hiring a security firm or a security escort.

Kidnap and Ransom (K&R) Insurance

K&R insurance provides essential access to professional crisis management consultants and covers financial costs associated with abduction:

• Value of K&R Policies: The primary value of this insurance lies in the 24/7 access to crisis response consultants, who are highly trained former members of special forces or government security agencies. Response consultants provide advisory services related to security management for high-net-worth individuals and wealthy families.
• Premium Investment: Insurers often invest a portion of the premium in preventive measures, such as risk assessments, personal security awareness training, and family emergency planning.
• Ransom Funding: While many wealthy families could afford the ransom themselves, the policy ensures access to the crisis response expertise needed to manage the incident professionally. The policyholder must typically fund the ransom cost in advance and is reimbursed later by the insurer.

Medical and Terrorism Evacuation Coverage

Due to instability in certain regions, some specialized medical evacuation policies extend their coverage to include security-related costs:

• One provider offers a Gold medical evacuation plan that includes a War and Terrorism Extension. This comprehensive coverage costs US$70 per person per month (providing coverage up to $500,000 per event). This plan covers bodily injury and medical expenses directly or indirectly caused by war, riot, or terrorist activity, provided the person is not actively participating.

In essence, the security costs incurred by an expat in Maputo reflect the need to fully replace the core protective functions that are unreliable or unavailable in the public sector. This investment ensures access to specialized crisis response and robust physical defenses, securing both your person and your residence.

Final Security Recommendations

To minimize risk and ensure a safe stay in Maputo, incorporate the following practices:

• Be Discreet: Avoid ostentatious displays of wealth, as foreigners may be targeted for their perceived affluence.
• Choose Secure Lodging: Prioritize residences in expat-popular areas that have adequate security systems or guards.
• Be Vigilant at Night: Avoid walking alone after dark or in less crowded/poorly lit areas. Avoid all but emergency travel between sunset and sunrise.
• Adhere to Security Guidelines: If you work in Mozambique, always follow your employer's security guidelines.

Choosing a secure residence in Maputo is akin to building a castle wall around your home. You must rely on professional builders (private security) because the municipal protection services are too unreliable to keep the gate safe..

Choosing the adequate neighborhood in Maputo  

Renting accommodation in Mozambique can be challenging due to a shortage of adequate long-term housing that meets Western standards for luxury and utilities. For expatriates in Maputo, choosing a neighborhood is a balance between security, high-end amenities, cost, and access to international facilities.

Maputo is geographically divided into the Cidade cimento (colonial area closest to the sea, where expats and high-income locals live) and the Canio (stretching inland, home to the local population). The rental prices are extremely sensitive to location; the better the location in terms of proximity to services and infrastructure, the higher the rent price.

Here is a guide to the best locations and neighborhoods in Maputo based on key expat criteria:

1. Premium Expat Hubs: Security and Amenities

These neighborhoods are the preferred choice for expatriate families, corporate clients, and diplomats who require high security, proximity to international amenities, and superior infrastructure.

Neighborhood Rent/Cost Security & Access Key Facilities
Polana Cimento Commands premium rates. Averages $442/month for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center and $802/month for a 3-bedroom unit. Considered one of the safer areas in Maputo. Offers excellent security and is frequently sought after by expats. Easily accessible to downtown attractions via short walks or chapa (minibus) rides. Known for its upscale ambiance, luxury hotels (like the Polana Serena Hotel), numerous embassies, and international schools. Features high-end restaurants and the Polana Shopping Center. Located along Avenida Julius Nyerere.
Sommerschield (I & II) Represents the premium rental district. Rent is high, comparable to Polana Cimento. Luxury villas can reach $2,000 to $3,000 per month for long-term rentals. An upscale residential area with a strong reputation for safety, often leading expats to choose residences with security guards or gated compounds. Maintains low vacancy rates (below 5–8%) due to consistent expat demand. Ideal for families and professionals due to its proximity to international schools and business hubs. Known for its tranquil atmosphere, beautiful villas, embassies, and the family-friendly Cronistas Park. Lenmed Maputo Private Hospital is located in Sommerschield II.

2. Central, Established, and Value Options

These areas offer a mix of convenience, central location, and access to essential services, often serving professionals who prioritize short commutes.

• COOP (Municipal District No. 1): This neighborhood is well-established and centrally located in Maputo. It serves as a practical residential and commercial hub, offering excellent accessibility to public transport and major city avenues. COOP attracts a diverse population, including families and professionals, and offers quick access to downtown Maputo's business, administrative, and cultural attractions. It is home to AYAmed, a private healthcare provider specializing in general practice.
• Central (Central A/B/C): Located near Polana and Sommerschield, the city center maintains strong rental demand due to competitive pricing and proximity to urban amenities and business districts. Apartments here typically attract corporate tenants.
• Alto Maé and Malhangalene: These areas, parts of Municipal District No. 1 and No. 2, respectively, offer cheaper and more affordable houses where rent can vary from $200 USD to $400 USD.

3. Key Issues Pertaining to Security, Access, and Facilities

When selecting accommodation in Maputo, several crucial factors related to infrastructure and safety must be considered, regardless of the neighborhood:

Security

• Private Security is Essential: Foreign nationals often rely on private security services for protection due to the perception that the national police force (Polícia da República da Moçambique—PRM) is inefficient, unprofessional, and often accused of corruption.
• Petty Crime Hotspots: Petty theft (pickpocketing, bag-snatching) is common, especially in crowded urban areas and markets. Caution is particularly advised in areas like Baixa (downtown markets).

Access and Infrastructure

• Roads and Traffic: Traffic volumes in and around Maputo can be horrendous during rush hours (7 am–10 am and 3 pm–7 pm). Roads in the city are generally poor.
• Expat Transport: While public transport (chapas) is cheap (MZN 20 for a local ticket), it is often seen as unreliable and sometimes unsafe. Expats usually rely on taxis or private vehicles.
• Internet Access: Maputo has competitive internet service providers. Tvcabo is considered the best and fastest option, with "yes!" offering fiber similar to Tvcabo.