Mozambique NEWS briefings 

Economic & Finance Briefing: April 2025 Update

April 2025 presented a mixed economic picture for Mozambique. Significant progress in the crucial Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) sector offered long-term optimism, while immediate challenges like rising inflation, fiscal pressures, and evolving international financial partnerships dominated the month's headlines.

Key Economic & Financial Developments:

• Macroeconomic Outlook: Growth vs. Inflation:

  • The government approved its draft 2025 Economic and Social Plan and State Budget (PESOE), projecting GDP growth of 2.9% for the year. This follows a significant slowdown to 1.8% growth in 2024, partly attributed to post-election disruptions. Other institutions like the World Bank projected 3.0% growth for 2025.
  • Inflation continued its upward trend, with the annual rate accelerating for the sixth consecutive month to 4.77% in March (reported in April), the highest since late 2023. Rising food prices were the primary driver. Government budget assumptions placed average annual inflation around 7%, while the World Bank projected 5.5% for 2025.

• LNG Sector Gains Major Momentum:

  • Coral South Success: Eni celebrated the 100th LNG cargo shipped from its Coral South Floating LNG (FLNG) facility, highlighting the project's contribution, including ~$800 million in contracts for local SMEs and ~1,400 jobs.
  • Coral Norte Approved: The government approved the development plan for Eni's Coral Norte FLNG project, a major $7.2 billion investment expected to produce 3.5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). This approval is seen as a significant boost to investor confidence.
  • TotalEnergies Project Restart: TotalEnergies signaled intentions to resume construction on its large onshore Mozambique LNG project by mid-2025, citing resolved security and financial issues. This followed the US Export-Import Bank's approval of a $4.7 billion loan for the project, though environmental and human rights concerns were raised by NGOs.

• Fiscal Challenges Persist:

  • The draft 2025 State Budget anticipates a significant deficit of €1.7 billion (126.8 billion Meticais).
  • Public debt remains a concern, reported at 76.9% of GDP at the end of 2024 (€15 billion).
  • Liquidity pressures, driven by a large public wage bill and high domestic debt service costs, were noted by the World Bank. Revenue collection in 2024 fell short of targets.

• Monetary Policy & Currency:

  • The Banco de Moçambique (Central Bank) continued its trend of monetary policy easing seen earlier in the year and approved new foreign exchange regulations for intermediary banks.
  • Concerns regarding shortages of foreign currency impacting fuel imports were acknowledged early in the month.

• International Finance & Aid:

  • Shift in IMF Relations: Mozambique and the IMF mutually agreed not to proceed with the remaining reviews under the existing Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement. Instead, the Mozambican authorities requested discussions to begin for a new IMF program, aiming to better align support with the new government's priorities.
  • US Aid Concerns: The Finance Minister expressed significant concern about the potential impact of suspended US aid (under the Trump administration), particularly on vital health programs like HIV/AIDS treatment funded through PEPFAR, USAID, and CDC. Assurances were reportedly given that PEPFAR assistance would continue.

In Summary:

April highlighted Mozambique's strategic bet on its massive gas reserves to drive future economic growth. While the LNG sector saw significant positive developments, the government faces the immediate tasks of managing inflation, navigating a tight fiscal space with high debt, and adapting its relationships with key international financial institutions and donors.

Mozambique Social Scene: April 2025 Highlights

April 2025 in Mozambique was marked by ongoing humanitarian challenges driven by conflict and climate impacts, significant developments in public health infrastructure alongside labour disputes, and a cultural scene showing resilience despite cancellations due to instability.

Humanitarian Situation, Demographics & Education:

• Displacement Continues: The security situation, particularly in Cabo Delgado, continued to drive displacement. Renewed attacks by non-state armed groups (NSAGs) since the start of the year displaced an estimated 24,000 people by late April across several districts, with Ancuabe being the most affected (~15,000 displaced). Children and women constitute the majority of the displaced (estimated 50% children, 30% women). Humanitarian access remained challenging due to insecurity.
• Cyclone Impact: The aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Jude (which hit in late March/early April) continued to be felt, particularly in Nampula province. Over 1 million people were impacted, and significant damage to infrastructure included 526 schools, affecting the education of approximately 164,000 students.
• Education Resources: While historical data indicates millions of pupils enrolled in primary education, recent shocks from conflict and cyclones, coupled with noted fiscal pressures limiting resources for critical public investments, pose ongoing challenges to the education sector. World Bank initiatives like the "Harnessing the Demographic Dividend" project continued efforts to support youth education and employment opportunities.

Public Health & Safety:

• Health System Developments:
  • A significant step was taken to decentralize diagnostic capacity with the inauguration of a new Public Health Laboratory in Xai-Xai, Gaza Province. This reportedly makes Mozambique the only African country with such labs in every province.
  • However, the health sector faced disruption as the Association of United Mozambican Health Professionals (APSUSM) announced the second phase of a nationwide strike starting April 30th. Demands included better working conditions, reliable supplies, and improved patient care, following an earlier suspension of strike action at the beginning of the month.
  • Concerns persisted regarding the potential impact of suspended US foreign aid on crucial health services, particularly HIV/AIDS programs, though assurances were reportedly given that PEPFAR funding would continue.
• Disease Outbreaks: Cholera remained a concern, with nearly 2,800 cases and 50 deaths reported in Nampula and Zambezia provinces by early April. Response efforts were hampered by cyclone damage to health facilities. Regional bodies like Africa CDC continued to address broader health security challenges, including Mpox preparedness.
• Safety and Human Rights: Civilian safety, especially in Cabo Delgado, remained precarious due to NSAG activity, including a reported sharp increase in abductions in March. Amnesty International continued to highlight human rights concerns related to the security forces' response during the post-election period (late 2024/early 2025), calling for accountability for alleged unlawful use of force and arbitrary arrests affecting protesters and bystanders, including children.

Cultural Scene:

• Events Proceed: Maputo's cultural scene saw activity with the opening of art exhibitions like "Fingers of Clay and Ink" at the Franco-Mozambican Cultural Centre and Lillian Beny's photography show "Where Do I Land?". Singer Osvalda Nhacune also presented new work. Various international academic conferences were scheduled across major cities.
• Festival Cancelled: Underscoring the impact of the broader national context, the "Tlangano Dança, Percussão & Voz" festival, a significant cultural event planned for April 2025 in Inhambane, was cancelled. Organizers cited the prevailing political and social instability as preventing them from ensuring the safety and quality of the event, expressing hope to return in 2026.

In Summary:

Social life in Mozambique during April 2025 reflected a nation grappling with complex challenges. While progress was made in areas like public health infrastructure and cultural expression continued, the deep impacts of conflict, climate shocks, economic pressures, and political instability were evident in ongoing displacement, stressed public services, and disruptions to planned events.

Mozambique Infrastructure & Development Briefing

April 2025 was a significant month for Mozambique's infrastructure and development landscape, marked by the approval of long-term strategic plans, major advancements in the crucial energy sector, and initiatives aimed at improving transport and leveraging technology for resilience. However, the impacts of recent climate shocks and fiscal constraints continue to pose challenges.

Key Developments:

• Long-Term Vision Solidified:

  • Parliament approved the National Development Strategy (ENDE) 2025-2044, a crucial 20-year roadmap guiding national planning and budgeting. Infrastructure, organization, and territorial planning form one of its five core pillars.
  • The government also approved the draft Economic and Social Plan and State Budget (PESOE) for 2025. While outlining development objectives and including infrastructure as a key pillar, it also projected a significant budget deficit (€1.7 billion), highlighting potential funding challenges for large-scale projects.

• Energy Infrastructure Advances:

  • LNG Sector: Momentum continued with the government approving the development plan for Eni's Coral Norte Floating LNG (FLNG) project ($7.2 billion investment). Furthermore, TotalEnergies signaled intentions to restart construction on its major onshore Mozambique LNG project by mid-2025, citing resolved security and financial concerns, boosted by a recent US EXIM bank loan approval. Tenders for services related to the Rovuma LNG project were also active.
  • Renewables Focus: The RENMOZ 2025 conference, held in Maputo in late April, brought together stakeholders to discuss Mozambique's energy transition, financing, and the role of renewables in sustainable industrialization, with participation from entities like MozParks focusing on clean energy for industrial zones.

• Transport Links Targeted:

  • Maritime: Efforts to revitalize coastal shipping saw the launch of new maritime cabotage services intended to link the ports of Maputo, Nacala, and Mocímboa da Praia, aiming to reduce reliance on road transport.
  • Regional Corridors: Mozambique participated in a SADC Inter-Ministerial Task Force meeting focused on addressing persistent challenges (congestion, infrastructure, security) at the crucial Kasumbalesa border post (DRC/Zambia), which impacts several regional trade corridors vital to Mozambique (e.g., Beira, Nacala).

• Technology for Resilience:

  • A drone-based disaster management initiative was launched in partnership with the African Development Bank and Korea's Busan Technopark. The project includes establishing a drone training center and implementing monitoring systems in high-risk flood zones to enhance early warning and response capabilities.

• Public Service Infrastructure:

  • Reinforcing public health capacity, a new Public Health Laboratory was inaugurated in Xai-Xai, Gaza Province, contributing to decentralized diagnostic services.

• Overcoming Challenges:

  • The aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Jude (March/April) continued to necessitate humanitarian response and reconstruction efforts, with significant damage reported to schools and other infrastructure, requiring funding appeals.
  • The African Development Bank highlighted ongoing work related to post-IDAI cyclone reconstruction efforts.

In Summary:

Mozambique laid down ambitious long-term development plans in April, heavily underpinned by expected revenues from its burgeoning gas sector, which saw significant project advancements. Initiatives to improve maritime transport and leverage technology for disaster management were also launched. However, successfully implementing the national strategy will depend on securing adequate financing amidst fiscal pressures and effectively managing reconstruction efforts following climate shocks.

Mozambique International Relations & Trade Briefing: April 2025 Update

April 2025 saw Mozambique actively engaging on multiple international and regional fronts. Key highlights included the official launch of trading under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), high-level diplomatic meetings, ongoing collaboration on regional infrastructure challenges, and continued focus on partnerships related to its significant Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) resources.

Key Developments:

• Boosting Regional & Continental Trade:

  • AfCFTA Launch: Mozambique officially launched its commercial transactions within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in Beira. This follows the approval of its tariff offer earlier in the year, opening trade opportunities with potentially 47 other African nations under the agreement.
  • Intra-Africa Trade Growth: At the AfCFTA launch, it was reported that Mozambique's trade with other African countries reached US$7.1 billion over the last five years.
  • Domestic Commerce: The government lifted time restrictions on commercial activities domestically as part of broader economic recovery measures.
  • Maritime Cabotage: New maritime cabotage services were inaugurated, aiming to improve domestic cargo transport between the key ports of Maputo, Nacala, and Mocímboa da Praia.

• Regional Cooperation & Integration:

  • SADC Border Focus: Mozambique participated in a SADC Inter-Ministerial Task Force meeting addressing persistent challenges (congestion, infrastructure, security) at the crucial Kasumbalesa border post (DRC/Zambia). Resolving issues at this border is vital for the efficiency of regional corridors important to Mozambique, like the Beira and Nacala corridors.
  • Malawi Border Post: Preparations reached an advanced stage for operationalizing the One Stop Border Post (OSBP) concept between Malawi and Mozambique at the Dedza/Calomue crossing, aiming to streamline trade and passenger movement.
  • SADC Technical Cooperation: Mozambique, as a member state, was involved in SADC forums, such as the Technical Committee on Certification and Accreditation (TCCA) meeting in Johannesburg, focusing on harmonizing qualifications frameworks within the region.

• Bilateral Engagements & Aid:

  • EU Dialogue: Mozambique's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Maria Manuela Dos Santos Lucas, met with the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, in Brussels.
  • US Relations & Aid: Finance Minister Carla Louveira met with the US Ambassador to discuss the suspension of US foreign aid under the Trump administration. While expressing concern over the potential impact, particularly on health programs, the Minister affirmed Mozambique's willingness to deepen cooperation. Assurances were reportedly given that PEPFAR funding would continue.

• International Partnerships & Investment:

  • LNG Sector: International partnerships remained central to the LNG sector's progress. Eni (Italy), along with partners ExxonMobil (USA) and CNPC (China), celebrated the 100th cargo from Coral South FLNG. TotalEnergies (France) signaled the restart of its onshore project, supported by a recent US EXIM Bank loan.

• Regional Humanitarian Dimensions:

  • The presence of Mozambican asylum seekers continued to be noted in neighbouring countries like Eswatini and Malawi, stemming from earlier post-election displacement, requiring ongoing regional and international humanitarian coordination (e.g., via UNHCR).

In Summary:

Mozambique in April 2025 actively pursued deeper economic integration within Africa through AfCFTA while working collaboratively within SADC to address shared infrastructure bottlenecks. Bilateral relationships with key partners like the EU and US were maintained, though discussions around foreign aid levels were prominent. The nation's international engagement remained heavily influenced by the strategic development of its natural gas resources and the regional humanitarian consequences of internal instability.

Mozambique Public Safety & Security Briefing: April 2025 Recap

Public safety and security in Mozambique during April 2025 remained dominated by the persistent insurgency in the north and the ongoing fallout from the post-election period, alongside international cooperation efforts.

Key Developments:

• Cabo Delgado Conflict Persists:

  • Ongoing Attacks & Displacement: Non-State Armed Groups (NSAGs), linked to Islamic State Mozambique (ISM), continued attacks across multiple districts (Ancuabe, Macomia, Meluco, Montepuez, Muidumbe, Nangade). Since January 1st, these attacks have reportedly displaced an estimated 24,000 people, with Ancuabe district being the most affected in recent waves (~15,000 displaced by mid-April).
  • Violence Against Civilians: Reports indicated an intensification of violence against civilians in March (reported in April), including a significant number of abductions. Hijackings on key supply routes hampered humanitarian aid delivery.
  • Security Force Operations: Mozambican Defence and Security Forces (FDS) were engaged in responding to attacks. President Chapo acknowledged challenges facing the FDS earlier in the month. International forces, including Rwandan troops, remained present, with the Mozambican Armed Forces Chief meeting the Rwandan Security Forces Commander in Pemba. Note: One report cited an official claiming the capture of final rebel camps, suggesting an end to the insurgency, but this appears contradicted by ongoing attack reports and security alerts.
  • Terrorist Activity & Alerts: The US Embassy issued a security alert mid-month regarding terrorist attacks near the Niassa Special Reserve, including hostage-taking at a hunting lodge, advising citizens to reconsider travel to the area.

• Post-Election Security Concerns Linger:

  • Human Rights Scrutiny: Amnesty International released reports detailing alleged human rights violations by security forces during the crackdown on post-election protests (Oct 2024 - Jan 2025). Allegations included unlawful use of lethal force, reckless use of tear gas and kinetic impact projectiles (injuring protesters and bystanders, including children), mass arbitrary arrests, and suppression of information. Calls for thorough, impartial investigations and accountability continued.
  • Targeted Violence: Concerns over political violence persisted with reports of an attempted murder of a musician and supporter of opposition figure Venâncio Mondlane in Quelimane mid-month. This followed earlier reports of killings of opposition-linked individuals.
  • Legal Follow-up: It was reported that the Public Prosecutor's Office had initiated 742 criminal proceedings related to the post-election demonstrations, with 31 cases involving police officers.

• International Cooperation & Training:

  • The EU Military Assistance Mission in Mozambique (EUMAM MOZ) and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) jointly organized specialized training for FDS and Police (PRM) personnel on the reception and care of victims of terrorism.

• Regional Security:

  • Mozambique participated in a SADC meeting focused on addressing security challenges, among other issues, at the vital Kasumbalesa border post (DRC/Zambia).

In Summary:

Mozambique faced significant security challenges on multiple fronts in April 2025. The complex insurgency in Cabo Delgado continued to cause displacement and insecurity, requiring ongoing military and humanitarian responses. Simultaneously, the country grappled with the legacy of post-election violence, facing calls for accountability regarding security force conduct and addressing politically motivated attacks.

Mozambique Culture & Lifestyle: April 2025 Snapshot

April 2025 in Mozambique showcased a blend of artistic expression, national observances, and everyday life adjustments, even as broader challenges cast shadows on some cultural activities.

Vibrant Arts Scene in Maputo:

• The capital buzzed with artistic energy. The Franco-Mozambican Cultural Centre hosted "Fingers of Clay and Ink," an exhibition pairing Reinata Sadimba's ceramics with Sebastião Coana's paintings, offering a dialogue on Mozambican life and Makonde culture.
• Photographer Lillian Beny invited reflection with her exhibition "Where Do I Land?" at the 16NetO Cultural Space.
• Music lovers enjoyed singer Osvalda Nhacune's presentation of her work "Hemba," focusing on promoting local languages through Tsonga music, also at 16NetO.
• The 22nd Cycle of European Cinema kicked off at the French-Mozambican Cultural Centre, featuring films from various European nations and, for the first time, Ukraine with "20 Days in Mariupol."
• Celebrating female creativity around National Women's Day, the "Mulher é Arte" (Woman is Art) collective exhibition, organized by BCI, highlighted diverse works by women artists across painting, photography, crafts, fashion, and more.

National Observances:

• Mozambique National Women's Day was marked on April 7th, with celebrations and reflections observed, including gatherings at Maputo's Heroes' Square.

Lifestyle & Social Notes:

• Travel & Connectivity: Discussions around domestic aviation continued, with potential shifts involving foreign airlines possibly impacting internal travel options and costs, alongside ongoing hopes for increased tourism, particularly from South Africa.
• Digital Life: Mozambique saw continued growth in digital connectivity, with reports indicating around 19.8% internet penetration and 10.5% social media usage at the start of 2025, reflecting evolving communication and lifestyle patterns.

Cultural Challenges:

• The prevailing political and social instability had tangible impacts. The organizers of the "Tlangano Dança, Percussão & Voz" festival, a major cultural event planned for April in Inhambane, announced its cancellation due to inability to guarantee safety and logistical complexities, expressing hopes for a return in 2026.
• The ongoing humanitarian situation, particularly the aftermath of Cyclone Jude and displacement in the north, continued to affect the daily lives and well-being of many communities, impacting their ability to engage fully in cultural and social activities.

In Summary:

Despite facing national challenges that led to the cancellation of at least one major festival, Mozambique's cultural heart continued to beat in April, particularly in Maputo's vibrant arts scene. National commemorations and evolving lifestyle trends related to travel and digital connectivity also shaped the month's social fabric.

Mozambique Tourism, Hospitality & Travel: April 2025 Update

April 2025 presented a challenging picture for Mozambique's tourism and travel sectors, significantly impacted by security incidents in the north, alongside ongoing issues in domestic aviation. However, initiatives to improve connectivity and hopes for regional tourism persisted.

Key Developments:

• Security Incident Dampens Northern Tourism:

  • A major security event occurred in the Niassa Special Reserve, a key wildlife area bordering Cabo Delgado. Reports emerged of terrorist groups attacking villages, entering the reserve, attacking a private hunting lodge (Kambako Safaris), taking hostages, killing staff members, and burning facilities.
  • This prompted the US Embassy to issue a security alert, advising citizens to reconsider travel to the Niassa Reserve, surrounding villages, and hunting properties due to the increased risk of violence.
  • This incident raises significant concerns for the wildlife tourism sector in northern Mozambique, potentially leading to cancellations and impacting businesses reliant on international hunters and tourists. General travel advisories also continued to warn against travel to parts of Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces.

• Aviation Sector Challenges:

  • Mozambique's state-owned airline, LAM (Linhas Aéreas de Moçambique), continued to face difficulties. Reports surfaced that the government is considering handing domestic routes to foreign airlines (potentially South African) due to LAM's struggles with debt and reliability.
  • LAM reportedly adjusted flight schedules due to a reduction in its operational fleet. This follows earlier suspensions of unprofitable international routes.
  • The hospitality industry has previously expressed desire for more competition and low-cost carriers, particularly from South Africa, to boost tourism, highlighting the limitations imposed by the current aviation situation.

• New Connectivity Initiatives:

  • A positive development was the announcement of a new flight route connecting Beira and Vilanculos, scheduled to start in June 2025. Operated by Safari Air in partnership with Classic Portfolio, the twice-weekly flights aim to seamlessly link Gorongosa National Park with the Bazaruto Archipelago, facilitating popular bush-and-beach itineraries.
  • New maritime cabotage services were inaugurated to link the ports of Maputo, Nacala, and Mocímboa da Praia, primarily aimed at cargo but potentially improving logistics that support coastal tourism indirectly.

• Hospitality Sector Activity:

  • While no major hotel openings specific to Mozambique were highlighted in April reports, job postings indicated ongoing activity within the sector, including positions at remote project sites (like Afungi) and in cities like Beira and Maputo.
  • Mozambique hosted several international conferences in April, suggesting continued demand for business travel and associated hospitality services.

• Travel Facilitation & Road Safety:

  • Efforts were made to manage road travel, particularly during peak periods like Easter, with road management company TRAC implementing safety campaigns and coordinating with border officials at Ressano Garcia (connecting with South Africa).

In Summary:

The serious security incident in the Niassa Reserve dealt a significant blow to tourism prospects in that region during April. Combined with the ongoing uncertainties surrounding the national airline LAM, travel within and to certain parts of Mozambique faced considerable headwinds. However, targeted initiatives like the new Beira-Vilanculos flight route offer potential boosts for specific tourist circuits, and the country continues to cater to business travel and hopes to attract more regional tourists, especially from South Africa.

Maputo Focus: April 2025 News Briefing

April 2025 saw Maputo bustling with activity, serving as the center for key government announcements, international conferences, vibrant cultural events, and ongoing economic activity, while also reflecting some national political tensions.

Government & Politics:

• National Announcements: Maputo was the venue for significant government announcements following Council of Ministers meetings, including the draft 2025 State Budget (PESOE) and the approval process for the 20-year National Development Strategy (ENDE).
• Legal & Political Developments: The Attorney-General, based in Maputo, commented on ongoing investigations, including those related to the national airline, LAM. The legal advisor to opposition figure Venâncio Mondlane was questioned by prosecutors in the capital. Reports also surfaced of human rights activists being denied the right to march in central Maputo.
• Diplomacy: The Finance Minister held discussions in Maputo with the US Ambassador regarding the suspension of US foreign aid. The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs met Mozambique's Foreign Minister in Brussels, but diplomatic activity involving Maputo-based embassies (like the High Commission of India) continued.

Economy & Business:

• Port Activity: The Port of Maputo remained active, with regular updates on vessel schedules and cargo movements.
• Conferences & Innovation: Maputo hosted key industry events, including the RENMOZ 2025 conference focusing on renewable energy and the Women Techmakers Maputo Regional Event, highlighting the city's role as a hub for business and technology discussions.
• Commerce Regulations: Businesses in Maputo, like the rest of the country, were affected by the government's decision to lift time restrictions on commercial activities, aimed at stimulating the economy.

Culture & Events:

• Arts Scene: Maputo's cultural venues were active. The Franco-Mozambican Cultural Centre hosted the "Fingers of Clay and Ink" art exhibition and the 22nd Cycle of European Cinema. The "Mulher é Arte" exhibition celebrated female artists around National Women's Day (April 7th), which was also marked at Heroes' Square. The 16NetO Cultural Space featured photography and music presentations.
• International Conferences: Various international academic and professional conferences across diverse fields like African Philosophy, Social Justice, Engineering, and Education were scheduled to take place in Maputo throughout the month.

Security & International Presence:

• Embassy Alert: While the incident occurred far north, the US Embassy in Maputo issued a security alert regarding a terrorist attack in the Niassa Special Reserve, advising US citizens.
• Military/Security Cooperation: Maputo hosted visits and coordination meetings involving international missions like the EU Military Assistance Mission (EUMAM MOZ) and the EU Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) Operation ATALANTA..