On January 30, CEBRI held the event "The Political Situation in Mozambique Post-October 2024 Elections," bringing together experts to analyze the country's prospects in the global political and economic landscape.

The discussion featured Brazil’s Ambassador to Maputo, Ademar Seabra da Cruz Jr., Adriano Nuvunga, professor at Eduardo Mondlane University, and Paulo Correa, Executive Director at the IDB and former Chief Economist of the World Bank in Mozambique (2021-2023). The debate was moderated by Natália Dias, Senior Fellow at CEBRI.

The conversation revisited perceptions of Mozambique in recent years, particularly in the post-COVID period. The country had been considered one of the most promising in terms of economic growth, and its political standing was also noteworthy, with its appointment as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council on January 1, 2023.

As highlighted throughout the debate, the post-election political crisis—marked by the re-election of the Mozambique Liberation Front (FRELIMO), which has been in power since the country's independence in 1975, and the rise of protests and social mobilizations—has had significant repercussions. Instability has deterred foreign investors, halted key sectors, and created challenges for implementing essential development projects. Additionally, Mozambique's vulnerability to climate change remains a critical factor affecting its economy and social stability.

Mozambique had been on a promising development trajectory, aligning with various analyses of Sub-Saharan Africa's growth potential. “All of this changes with the political and institutional crisis following the announcement of the October 9 election results,” emphasized Ambassador Ademar Seabra da Cruz.

Natália Dias, Senior Fellow at CEBRI, underscored the importance of closely monitoring Mozambique’s political landscape, particularly regarding security in Cabo Delgado, in the north of the country, where major natural gas investments are concentrated. Beyond political challenges, she highlighted that “Mozambique stands out for its economic potential and strategic location on the African continent,” serving as a crucial connection point between Asian countries and landlocked neighboring nations.

Watch the full debate HERE.