Malawian and Zimbabwean troops now guard the routes.

"My plan is for you to cross the border disguised as Zimbabwean troops."

Zimbabwean troops protect a corridor from the port of Beira, in northern Mozambique, through which a highway and rail line run to Zimbabwe.

Human Rights Watch has accused Zimbabwean troops of killing more than 200 people, raping women and forcing children to search for the gems in the fields.

He was found alive in the jungle by Zimbabwean troops five days later.

The Limpopo corridor was raided last year by Renamo, which charged that Zimbabwean troops were operating outside their restricted area.

"It was very dangerous until the Zimbabwean troops came to patrol this area," Mr. Maluque said.

"This was definitely the main reason for keeping the Zimbabwean troops there," said Alex Yearsley, a spokesman for the group.

It was also agreed that Zimbabwean troops guarding the two strategic corridors across the country be withdrawn within one month.

But their advance was repulsed in the capital's suburbs, largely by Zimbabwean troops.