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 such as 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, such as 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

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, who indicated that 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

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 immediate tasks in 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 labor 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 have 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, with approximately 50% children and 30% women. Humanitarian access remained challenging due to ongoing 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, with significant damage to infrastructure, including 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

Energy Infrastructure Advances

Transport Links Targeted

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 a continued focus on partnerships related to its significant Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) resources.

Boosting Regional & Continental Trade

Mozambique officially launched its commercial transactions within the AfCFTA in Beira. This significant move follows the approval of its tariff offer earlier in the year, opening trade opportunities with potentially 47 other African nations under the agreement. At the launch, it was reported that Mozambique's trade with other African countries reached US$7.1 billion over the last five years. Additionally, the government lifted time restrictions on commercial activities domestically as part of broader economic recovery measures. New maritime cabotage services were inaugurated to improve domestic cargo transport between the key ports of Maputo, Nacala, and Mocímboa da Praia.

Regional Cooperation & Integration

Mozambique participated in a SADC Inter-Ministerial Task Force meeting, focusing on persistent challenges at the crucial Kasumbalesa border post (DRC/Zambia). Resolving these issues is vital for the efficiency of regional corridors important to Mozambique, such as the Beira and Nacala corridors. Preparations also reached an advanced stage for operationalizing the One Stop Border Post (OSBP) concept between Malawi and Mozambique at the Dedza/Calomue crossing, aimed at streamlining trade and passenger movement. As a member of SADC, Mozambique participated in forums like the Technical Committee on Certification and Accreditation (TCCA) meeting in Johannesburg, which focuses on harmonizing qualifications frameworks within the region.

Bilateral Engagements & Aid

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 to strengthen ties. Additionally, Finance Minister Carla Louveira discussed the suspension of US foreign aid under the Trump administration with the US Ambassador. While expressing concern over the potential impact on health programs, the Minister affirmed Mozambique's willingness to deepen cooperation, with assurances that PEPFAR funding would continue.

International Partnerships & Investment

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 neighboring countries like Eswatini and Malawi, stemming from earlier post-election displacement. This situation requires ongoing regional and international humanitarian coordination, particularly through organizations like UNHCR.

In Summary

In April 2025, Mozambique actively pursued deeper economic integration within Africa through AfCFTA while collaboratively working within SADC to address shared infrastructure bottlenecks. Bilateral relationships with key partners like the EU and US were maintained, although 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

The ongoing conflict involving Non-State Armed Groups (NSAGs), linked to Islamic State Mozambique (ISM), continued to escalate across multiple districts, including Ancuabe, Macomia, Meluco, Montepuez, Muidumbe, and Nangade. Since January 1st, these attacks have reportedly displaced an estimated 24,000 people, with the Ancuabe district being particularly hard-hit, experiencing approximately 15,000 new displacements by mid-April.

The violence included a troubling intensification of attacks on civilians. Reports indicated a significant number of abductions and hijackings on key supply routes, severely hampering humanitarian aid delivery. In response, the Mozambican Defence and Security Forces (FDS) engaged in operations against these groups, although President Chapo acknowledged the challenges facing the FDS earlier in the month. International forces, including Rwandan troops, remained active in the region. However, conflicting reports surfaced regarding the capture of rebel camps, suggesting a lack of clarity on the insurgency's status amidst ongoing attacks and security alerts.

Terrorist Activity & Alerts

Mid-month, the US Embassy issued a security alert regarding potential terrorist attacks near the Niassa Special Reserve, including reports of hostage-taking at a hunting lodge. The alert advised 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 their crackdown on post-election protests from October 2024 to January 2025. Allegations included unlawful use of lethal force, reckless use of tear gas, mass arbitrary arrests, and suppression of information, particularly affecting protesters and bystanders, including children. There were ongoing calls for thorough and impartial investigations and accountability.

Targeted Violence: Concerns over political violence persisted, highlighted by reports of an attempted murder of a musician connected to opposition figure Venâncio Mondlane in Quelimane mid-month. This incident followed earlier reports of killings associated with opposition-linked individuals.

Legal Follow-up: The Public Prosecutor's Office initiated 742 criminal proceedings related to the post-election demonstrations, including 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 focused on the reception and care of victims of terrorism.

Regional Security

Mozambique participated in a SADC meeting aimed at addressing security challenges, particularly those affecting the crucial Kasumbalesa border post with the DRC and Zambia.

In Summary

In April 2025, Mozambique faced significant security challenges on multiple fronts. The complex insurgency in Cabo Delgado continued to drive displacement and insecurity, necessitating ongoing military and humanitarian responses. Concurrently, the country grappled with the legacy of post-election violence, facing increasing 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 adjustments in everyday life, even as broader challenges cast shadows on some cultural activities.

Vibrant Arts Scene in Maputo

The capital buzzed with artistic energy this month. 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. Meanwhile, music lovers enjoyed singer Osvalda Nhacune's presentation of her work "Hemba," which focuses 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, a screening from Ukraine titled "20 Days in Mariupol."

In celebration of 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

Discussions around domestic aviation continued, with potential shifts involving foreign airlines possibly impacting internal travel options and costs. There were ongoing hopes for increased tourism, particularly from South Africa.

In terms of 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. This reflects evolving communication and lifestyle patterns among the population.

Cultural Challenges

However, the prevailing political and social instability had tangible impacts on cultural activities. The organizers of the "Tlangano Dança, Percussão & Voz" festival—a major cultural event planned for April in Inhambane—announced its cancellation due to the 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 news.

Mozambique Tourism, Hospitality & Travel: April 2025 Update

April 2025 presented a challenging landscape for Mozambique's tourism and travel sectors, significantly impacted by security incidents in the north and ongoing issues within domestic aviation. Despite these challenges, initiatives to improve connectivity and aspirations 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 and infiltrating the reserve. The assailants targeted a private hunting lodge, Kambako Safaris, taking hostages, killing staff members, and burning facilities. In response to these escalating risks, the US Embassy issued a security alert, advising citizens to reconsider travel to the Niassa Reserve, surrounding villages, and hunting properties due to heightened violence.

This incident raises significant concerns for the wildlife tourism sector in northern Mozambique, potentially leading to cancellations and negatively impacting businesses reliant on international hunters and tourists. General travel advisories continue to warn against travel to parts of Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces.

Aviation Sector Challenges

The Mozambique state-owned airline, LAM (Linhas Aéreas de Moçambique), continued to face significant difficulties. Reports indicated the government is considering transferring domestic routes to foreign airlines, potentially from South Africa, due to LAM's ongoing struggles with debt and reliability.

LAM has adjusted flight schedules following a reduction in its operational fleet and earlier suspensions of unprofitable international routes. The hospitality industry expressed a desire for increased competition and low-cost carriers, particularly from South Africa, to boost tourism, underscoring the limitations imposed by the current aviation situation.

New Connectivity Initiatives

In a positive development, a new flight route linking Beira and Vilanculos was announced, scheduled to commence in June 2025. Operated by Safari Air in partnership with Classic Portfolio, these twice-weekly flights aim to facilitate seamless connections between Gorongosa National Park and the Bazaruto Archipelago, enhancing popular bush-and-beach itineraries.

Additionally, new maritime cabotage services were inaugurated to link the ports of Maputo, Nacala, and Mocímboa da Praia. While primarily aimed at cargo, these services could indirectly improve logistics that support coastal tourism.

Hospitality Sector Activity

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

Travel Facilitation & Road Safety

Efforts were made to enhance road travel management, especially during peak periods such as Easter. The road management company TRAC implemented safety campaigns and coordinated with border officials at Ressano Garcia, which connects Mozambique with South Africa.

In Summary

The serious security incident in the Niassa Reserve significantly impacted tourism prospects in that region during April. Alongside ongoing uncertainties surrounding the national airline LAM, travel within and to certain parts of Mozambique faced considerable challenges. However, targeted initiatives like the new Beira-Vilanculos flight route offer potential boosts for specific tourist circuits. The country continues to cater to business travel and hopes to attract more regional tourists, particularly 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 activities, all while reflecting some national political tensions.

Government & Politics

National Announcements: Maputo was the venue for significant government announcements following meetings of the Council of Ministers. These included discussions on 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. Reports surfaced concerning the questioning of the legal advisor to opposition figure Venâncio Mondlane by prosecutors in the capital. Additionally, human rights activists claimed to have been 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. Meanwhile, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs met with Mozambique's Foreign Minister in Brussels, and diplomatic activity involving Maputo-based embassies, such as the High Commission of India, continued.

Economy & Business

Port Activity: The Port of Maputo remained active and updated regularly on vessel schedules and cargo movements, supporting trade and shipping operations.

Conferences & Innovation: Maputo hosted key industry events, including the RENMOZ 2025 conference focusing on renewable energy and the Women Techmakers Maputo Regional Event, further highlighting the city's role as a hub for business and technology discussions.

Commerce Regulations: Businesses in Maputo, like those in the rest of the country, were affected by the government's decision to lift time restrictions on commercial activities, a move aimed at stimulating the economy.

Culture & Events

Arts Scene: Maputo's cultural venues thrived this month. The Franco-Mozambican Cultural Centre hosted the "Fingers of Clay and Ink" art exhibition and the 22nd Cycle of European Cinema. Additionally, the "Mulher é Arte" exhibition celebrated female artists in conjunction with National Women's Day on April 7th, which was also marked at Heroes' Square. The 16NetO Cultural Space featured exhibitions, photography, and music presentations that added to the vibrant cultural atmosphere.

International Conferences: Various international academic and professional conferences across diverse fields such as African Philosophy, Social Justice, Engineering, and Education were scheduled to take place in Maputo throughout the month.

Security & International Presence

Embassy Alert: Although the recent security incident occurred far to the north, the US Embassy in Maputo issued a security alert regarding a terrorist attack in the Niassa Special Reserve, advising US citizens to remain vigilant.

Military/Security Cooperation: Maputo hosted visits and coordination meetings involving international missions, such as the EU Military Assistance Mission (EUMAM MOZ) and the EU Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) Operation ATALANTA, emphasizing ongoing military and security cooperation in the region.

In summary, April 2025 was a dynamic month for Maputo, characterized by significant government activities, cultural vibrancy, and a focus on economic recovery, all while navigating the complexities of security and international relations.