The Mozambique Conflict Worsens

Credit: AFP Images

Over 25,000 people have been forced to flee their homes in northern Mozambique in recent weeks. Because of the violence, cyclones, and chaos, over 1.3 million have been forced to flee for safety as well.

In Cabo Delgado, non-state armed militia destroyed infrastructure and disrupted recovery efforts. They have prevented humanitarian aid from entering. The militia, Islamic State in Central Africa Province, is an IS affiliate that targets civilians indiscriminately. They have been here since 2016 and is a key driver of instability that the government cannot solve. Foreign investors are extremely hesitant to invest money into the region,which leaves the government money-strapped.

Many have blamed the corruption in provinces like Cabo for fueling terrorism and point to the structural inequality that exists today. Many elites have profited from the rich natural resources that Mozambique has. Mozambique has extensive, fertile land and a natural expansive coastline. Its fisheries generate 2 billion dollars (tuna) and are becoming a rising destination in coastal tourism. They also have 30% of the world’s naval traffic and massive gas reserves.

Adding to the problem of instability are the aftereffects of Cyclone Jude, which destroyed thousands of homes and displaced thousands. People cannot get critical supplies and have lost everything. Food prices have surged and cracked the economy in Mozambique, one of the world’s poorest countries.

Protection for vulnerable groups has declined, as help is unable to reach critical areas. The UN warned that critical sectors like food, health, water, and sanitation all face severe funding shortages and are not even close to reaching their funding target.

Escalating political violence has gripped the region as well. Daniel Chapo allegedly claimed the landslide majority in the October 2024 election, and the main opposition leader claimed it was fraudulent. Spiraling unrest and looting were brutally dealt with by the government, leading to deaths on both sides.

People are now calling on the Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) to help fight the crisis. It’s a partnership between Australia, India, Japan, and the US. We’ll see what they can do.