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As it is stated on the Mozambique High Commission's website and just about every other visa processing website ... "Applicants MUST submit the following" ... and that following list includes: Copy of flight itinerary; Hotel booking confirmation. So yes not having those two pieces will be a deal breaker. Most Embassies for African countries are sticklers for the rules.
edited .. proof of overland transport in and out usually will substitute for an air itinerary, but not sure how you would prove a booking on a public bus.