Pouring fuel on the flames

The National Elections Commission is expected to confirm a significant victory for the ruling party Frelimo in Mozambique's parliamentary and presidential elections, with Daniel Chapo as the presidential winner. However, the results are met with skepticism and protests in major cities, as they do not align with the public's apparent discontent with Frelimo. The article suggests that aggressive factions within Frelimo, opposed to compromise with the opposition, have gained influence, raising concerns about electoral fraud and the legitimacy of the results.

The electoral earthquake

Venâncio Mondlane has made a significant impact in Mozambique's presidential election, potentially securing second place behind Frelimo's Daniel Chapo. Mondlane, previously a Renamo member, faced challenges including limited funding and support after joining the minor Podemos party. Despite these obstacles, his campaign has been noteworthy, highlighting the dynamic political landscape in Mozambique.

Teachers in Cabo Delgado: a lesson in realism

The government is urging teachers who fled the insurgency in Cabo Delgado's Macomia and Quissanga districts to return, despite ongoing conflicts. This is part of a broader effort to project a sense of normalcy and control over the insurgent threat in the region.

Tightening the belt

The government plans to reduce the 13th salary payment for public sector workers by two-thirds, aiming to avoid last-minute disappointment. Last year, a cash shortage led to an attempt to cancel the bonus, but backlash resulted in half the bonus being paid in two instalments.

The dream that won't die

Maputo hosted two significant economic conferences this week: the Annual Conference on the Private Sector (CASP) and the UNU Wider development conference. These events brought together private businesses, government figures, and international experts to discuss economic issues, poverty, climate change, inequality, and political instability. President Filipe Nyusi was among the attendees, highlighting the importance of these discussions for Mozambique's economic and social challenges.

The demanding creditor

Government ministers in Mozambique are relieved as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) releases the third instalment of funding under its loan programme. The IMF had delayed the funding, awaiting the government's compliance with budget details, an audit of covid-19 response funds, and the establishment of a sovereign wealth fund. The IMF also urges the government to reduce spending, repay debts faster, and control borrowing to manage the budget deficit, which is expected to widen to 10.4% of GDP this year.

Cahora Bassa eyes 4GW renewables portfolio, including 400MW solar plant

Cahora Bassa is planning a 4GW renewables portfolio, including a 400MW solar plant, to help meet Mozambique's goal of generating 62% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030.

Rigged elections: This time is different

The article discusses the aftermath of the recent Mozambican elections, highlighting widespread allegations of fraud by the ruling party Frelimo. Despite initial indications of a significant victory for the opposition party Renamo, official results showed Frelimo retaining control, leading to public outrage and large protests. The death of protest rapper Azagaia has galvanized disaffected youth, and there are calls to reconsider the democratic process in Mozambique. The article also touches on a legal complaint against TotalEnergies related to an insurgent attack and the resumption of its LNG project.

Renamo plots its next move

Preliminary results from the local elections suggest that the ruling party Frelimo won 64 out of 65 municipalities, raising concerns of election fraud. This situation presents a significant challenge for Renamo, the largest opposition party, which appears divided on its response strategy. Venâncio Mondlane, Renamo's candidate for mayor of Maputo, has threatened rebellion if his victory claim is not recognized and has called for a strike.

A car that won’t start: obstacles to Mozambique’s electric vehicle potential

Mozambique has the potential to host the entire supply chain for electric vehicles (EVs) due to its rich graphite deposits, but faces significant obstacles. Experts express skepticism about the country's ability to become a competitive EV manufacturing center, citing the need for more investment in human capital and the improbability of creating an unsubsidized car manufacturing sector. The UNCTAD report highlights Mozambique's capital growth and graphite reserves but notes challenges in logistics, technology, and skilled labor. The geopolitics of EV production and competition between China, Europe, and the West further complicate Mozambique's entry into the market. Syrah, a company mining graphite in Mozambique, plans to refine and process it in the US due to logistical advantages. The failed example of Matchedje Motors, which ceased car production due to various constraints, illustrates the difficulties faced by the industry in Mozambique.