Mozambique’s development challenges

With a population of 18.6 million and an area of just over 800,000 square kilometers, Mozambique is one of the largest countries in Southern Africa. A least developed country such as Mozambique extending over so large an area presents a unique set of development challenges such as adequate physical and social infrastructure and effective local administration. Mozambique became independent in 1975 following a protracted struggle against Portugese colonial rule. Far from leading to peace and stability, independence spawned a series of proxy wars generated by its neighbours, South Africa and what was then Rhodesia. From 1976 to 1979, Mozambique was under attack from Rhodesia and from 1979 onwards it entered a decade of destructive civil wars which ended in 1992. Once independence was achieved, FRELIMO ruled Mozambique as a one-party state, outlawed political opposition and adopted a Marxist-inspired socialist government. Mozambique supported and became a key frontline state (FLS) in the armed struggle for the liberation of Zimbabwe and South Africa and hosted millions of refugees and liberation armies of these countries’ nationalist movements.

Sustainable Development Goals:

Decent Work and Economic Growth

Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions