Ruling party Frelimo will select its presidential candidate in May at an extraordinary meeting of its Central Committee.

The insurgency in Mozambique continues to displace nearly 100,000 people, exacerbating humanitarian crises. President Filipe Nyusi's remarks highlight the insurgents' targeting of children for kidnappings. Nyusi's diplomatic visit to Algeria aims to address the religious aspects of the insurgency. Meanwhile, Frelimo is accused of manipulating voter registration ahead of the October general election, with the National Elections Committee focusing on pro-Frelimo areas. The party's internal conflict over selecting a presidential candidate persists, with agriculture minister Celso Correia as Nyusi's preferred successor.

Nearly 100,000 people in Cabo Delgado province have been displaced due to insurgent violence in the past month, according to the International Organisation for Migration.

Mozambique's Parliament is set to return on 22 February for a session to amend various electoral laws, following an extraordinary session that established the timetable for voter registration and candidate submissions for the upcoming election. Renamo, the main opposition party, is running behind schedule but has finally called a National Council meeting to select its presidential candidate for the October election. The party's current leader, Ossufo Momade, remains in his role beyond his term without a clear process for his replacement.

Mozambique's private sector, represented by Agostinho Vuma, is calling for more monetary space, government debt repayment to private businesses, and the unblocking of pigeon pea exports. These suggestions align with Zitamar News' consistent advocacy for economic reforms to support private business growth.

Zitamar News reviewed the week's events in Mozambique, highlighting the country's clean energy transition, political tensions following election fraud allegations, and the challenges in the mining sector. Nampula province is transitioning from charcoal to cooking gas, while a methanol plant could utilize Mozambique's gas reserves. Renamo's leader Ossufo Momade rejected war in response to election fraud, and Frelimo faces accusations of reactivating death squads. The government appointed SGS to monitor mineral exports, aiming to reduce tax evasion. Economic inequality persists despite extractive industries, and inflation is falling. The Islamic State-backed insurgency in Cabo Delgado is advancing, threatening security and gas projects. Samora Machel Júnior criticized infiltrators within Frelimo, positioning himself as a potential opposition figure.

Samora Machel Junior has criticized the direction of Frelimo, Mozambique's ruling party, gaining support from the electorate. With less than a year until general elections, the race for Frelimo's presidential candidate remains open. The Central Committee will soon review the party's performance in recent municipal elections, which saw mixed results under campaign manager Celso Correia. Despite winning 64 out of 65 municipalities, Frelimo's overall performance was poor, affecting Correia's chances of succeeding President Nyusi.

Public concern is growing over allegations of fraud in Mozambique's recent local elections. The main opposition party, Renamo, led by Ossufo Momade, is facing internal pressure from candidates who believe they won in key cities. Momade has announced peaceful demonstrations in response to the alleged malpractice, while some party members, like Venâncio Mondale, have shown a readiness for more confrontational actions.

Mozambique is conducting voting in major towns and cities with reports indicating a generally orderly process, despite some uncovered attempts at vote tampering. Election authorities aim to deliver results within three days, with preliminary outcomes expected soon. The elections will indicate whether Mozambique is moving towards a one-party state or if there is hope for a plural democracy.

Last Friday marked a significant point in Mozambique's 'hidden debts' saga, raising concerns for the country's public finances. In 2019, the government swapped the bond issued by state-owned Ematum as part of a $2bn debt scheme. The original debts were illegally agreed upon and defaulted. This year, the interest on the replacement bond, Mozambique's only international sovereign bond, increased from 5% to 9%, raising annual interest payments from $45m to $81m on the $900m principal. The last smaller repayment was made last week, with larger payments forthcoming.

This week, Mozambique settled legal actions with UBS, canceling $900m in debt claims. The government also decided not to seek compensation from Privinvest for the 'hidden debts' scandal. Upcoming local elections in Mocímboa da Praia are anticipated to be competitive. Mozambique's domestic public borrowing has increased, and the Bank of Mozambique reported a total domestic public sector debt of $5.04bn. Renamo ex-guerrillas are still awaiting pensions promised in the 2019 peace agreement. The Mozambican government is seeking lethal weapons from the EU to combat the insurgency in Cabo Delgado.

Signals about the restart of the Afungi gas projects in northern Mozambique are mixed. President Nyusi announced improved security in Cabo Delgado, suggesting operations could resume, while TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanné highlighted cost concerns from subcontractors. Despite these issues, security is no longer seen as an obstacle, and the humanitarian report is unlikely to delay the Rovuma Basin project. With elections approaching, the government is eager for positive developments.

Mozambique's National Hydrocarbons Company (ENH) is exploring the feasibility of building a methanol plant to utilize the country's natural gas resources. Despite past failures in domestic gas projects, ENH remains optimistic, citing methanol's diverse applications and global market potential. The feasibility study, conducted by Saipem, has yet to be publicly released. Key challenges include securing competitively priced gas and ensuring project viability amidst fluctuating global gas prices. The plant's location is likely to be within the secure perimeter of LNG projects in Cabo Delgado, with potential for future expansion to other ports.

The Dugongo cement factory near Maputo is emitting limestone dust due to a malfunction, which the company claims is not a public health risk if precautions are taken. The factory has a controversial history, linked to the China International Fund and Frelimo's SPI, with allegations of bypassing environmental assessments and human rights abuses.

Mozambique has been receiving offers of military support and security cooperation from various governments, including Russia, Japan, and India. The United Kingdom has now joined this effort, with the British High Commission in Maputo planning to establish a new 'defence section' to strengthen relations between the British military and the Mozambican armed forces and explore defence sales opportunities.

The Mozambican government is at risk due to a potential unprecedented police strike, spurred by salary delays of 2-3 months. This strike could have severe implications for law and order and counter-insurgency operations against the Islamist insurgency in Cabo Delgado province, where the police's Rapid Intervention Unit plays a crucial role. The absence of police action could embolden insurgents, who have been terrorizing civilians for six years.

Mozambique is pushing for in-country processing of mineral resources, aligning with a trend in southern Africa. However, the Balama graphite mine, operated by Syrah Resources, has been idle since May due to low demand from Chinese battery producers. Despite the current lack of activity, the mine is expected to be a significant source of graphite for the electric vehicle industry in the long term.

Russia's refusal to renew the Black Sea Grain Initiative has caused global concern, particularly for Mozambique, which imports 4.5% of its wheat from Ukraine. Despite increased wheat production in Australia, Brazil, and South Africa, Mozambique faces rising wheat prices, impacting bread costs and potentially exacerbating poverty and social unrest.

The review covers key events in Mozambique, including complaints from demobilised Renamo fighters about poor living conditions, the approval of a $500 million aid package by the Millennium Challenge Corporation, and the acquisition of Cimentos de Moçambique by China's Huaxin Cement. Public works minister Carlos Mesquita announced $80 million for post-cyclone Freddy rehabilitation. The review also highlights the increased cost of building a new LNG plant and the need for more autonomy for the Mozambique Stock Exchange.

The cost of building a new LNG plant on the Afungi peninsula has increased by over 20% in the past two years, potentially impacting TotalEnergies' plans to restart the Mozambique LNG project. Despite this, sources close to the project remain optimistic about progress. The Mozambican government recently showcased the stability of Palma and Mocímboa da Praia to international and local journalists, emphasizing that work can resume safely.

The cost of onshore liquified natural gas (LNG) projects has increased by 22% to 25% since 2020, according to experts. TotalEnergies is evaluating whether to restart its Mozambique LNG project, emphasizing that it will not proceed if costs have risen since the 2019 contract.

The demobilisation of Renamo's last military base in the Gorongosa mountains marks a pivotal moment in Mozambique's history, transforming Renamo from an armed movement to a purely political party. This milestone is seen as a major achievement of President Filipe Nyusi's tenure and a significant step in the evolution of Mozambican democracy. The upcoming elections will be the first that Renamo contests without an armed wing, eliminating its previous threats of chaos in response to perceived electoral rigging.

Pemba, the port city and capital of Cabo Delgado, has experienced a boom and bust cycle and has not become the thriving gas hub it was once expected to be. The Port of Pemba is currently under-performing, with a decline in exports of cotton, timber, and fish.

Mozambique is preparing to install new generation capacity through two floating power plants, contingent on South Africa's willingness to finance the project.

Mozambican banks face sustainability concerns following the Bank of Mozambique's decision to increase reserve requirements to combat persistent inflation, while maintaining the central interest rate at 17.25%.

Mozambique’s largest private sector employer, Tongaat Hulett, is looking to sell its sugar operations in Mozambique and other locations. The company hopes to attract potential investors to buy the operations either as a whole or in parts.

This week, significant events unfolded including the South African court's decision to extradite Manuel Chang to the US, the publication of the Rufin report on human rights in Cabo Delgado, and the announcement of TotalEnergies' consortium as the preferred bidder for the Mphanda Nkuwa dam. Mozambique's government reduced senior officials' pay, and the electoral process in Gaza is under scrutiny for 'ghost voters.' International relations are highlighted with visits from foreign officials and President Nyusi's international engagements. The US Exim Bank may reconsider financing the Mozambique LNG project if force majeure is lifted. The Mozambican government has been resistant to Chang's extradition, fearing further international exposure of the country's financial scandal.

Jean-Christophe Rufin's report, published by TotalEnergies, outlines a roadmap for rebooting the Mozambique LNG project, emphasizing the improved humanitarian and security situation in Cabo Delgado. The report criticizes the Frelimo government for its role in the conflict and calls for an end to TotalEnergies' payments to Mozambican soldiers. It also highlights the failings of the project's former operator, Anadarko, in resettlement efforts.

Kenmare's 'Report on Payments to Governments' reveals a $17.2 million contribution to Mozambique's exchequer in 2022, including taxes, royalties, and fees. In comparison, Montepuez Ruby Mining (MRM), primarily owned by Gemfields, paid $44.5 million on significantly lower revenues. Gemfields advocates for a new industry standard, the 'G-Factor,' to measure extractive projects' contributions, highlighting a stark difference in contributions when comparing Kenmare's and MRM's payments relative to their revenues and profits.

Renamo is preparing to close its Gorongosa base as part of the disarmament, demobilisation, and reintegration process. President Filipe Nyusi met with Renamo's president, Ossufo Momade, and a statement from Nyusi's office indicated that the conditions for DDR are in place. Although initially not jointly signed, a Renamo spokesperson later confirmed the party's agreement with the statement.

BCI has reappointed its outgoing chief executive, Francisco Costa, to serve another term after the Bank of Mozambique vetoed the appointment of a replacement.

Finance minister Max Tonela has ordered the election body STAE to cancel a MZN186m ($2.9m) contract for hiring vehicles in Cabo Delgado and Zambezia, directing the funds to be used for purchasing vehicles instead. This decision follows concerns raised by think tank CIP about the contracts benefiting businesspeople linked to the ruling party, causing a moral panic.

Tmcel, a state-owned telecommunications company in Mozambique, is on the verge of privatization as the transport and communications minister, Mateus Magala, seeks a suitable new owner. The company faces significant debt and is downsizing its staff. Speculation surrounds the potential withdrawal of the FADM from Mocímboa da Praia, leaving the town under the protection of the Rwanda Defence Force and the Mozambican police. The situation mirrors the challenges faced by the airline LAM, which is close to bankruptcy and has failed to attract new owners.

Japanese investment opportunities in Mozambique's growing battery production industry are highlighted, with Panasonic, Tesla, and Toyota noted as key players. Mozambique's significant graphite production, primarily by Syrah Resources, is discussed, including the company's decision to establish a factory in the US due to cost and proximity advantages. Human Rights Watch's condemnation of the legalization of Local Forces in Mozambique is also mentioned.

Mozambique's ability to sue Credit Suisse and Privinvest in London is at a critical juncture as the judge reviews progress in evidence provision. A trial scheduled for October to address claims related to Mozambique's $2 billion 'hidden debts' is at risk due to non-compliance by President Filipe Nyusi and institutions close to the presidency. The Attorney General's office is attempting to comply with court requests, but cannot compel the President's cooperation. Nyusi's resistance to providing evidence could lead to the trial's cancellation, which coincides with his pursuit of a third presidential term.

Mozambique's petroleum regulator has confirmed that drilling in the A5-A block off Angoche is set to begin, despite delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Transparency concerns have been raised following Sasol's secretive sale of a stake in the block to Eni, with CIP questioning the tax transparency of the deal. Meanwhile, Renamo generals have threatened to force Ossufo Momade to resign as party leader, citing his inability to address the demobilisation of former guerrillas and associated issues. In Cabo Delgado, a drug warehouse was mysteriously burned, and police recovered diverted aid products intended for Cyclone Freddy victims. Additionally, boys escaping from insurgent captivity in Cabo Delgado face rejection in their communities, while girls are welcomed as victims.

Graça Machel urges Mozambicans to overcome a 'culture of fear' and find their voice, while also suggesting that district elections should be postponed based on national consensus. The government has authorized industrial ruby mining in the Niassa Reserve Buffer Zone. The World Bank will provide funds to Mozambique for natural disaster relief, and urban development work in northern Mozambique is set to begin in June.

Tesla has signed a deal with Australia's Syrah Resources to source graphite from Mozambique, aiming to reduce its dependence on China for this key battery component. The agreement will see Tesla purchasing 80% of the graphite produced at Syrah's processing plant in Louisiana, starting in 2025. This move aligns with Tesla's broader strategy to increase its battery production capacity and address supply chain vulnerabilities. The deal is also significant for Syrah Resources, securing a non-Chinese buyer for its product. Experts note that this partnership is part of a larger trend among automakers to secure raw materials for electric vehicle batteries amid growing demand.

Tesla has signed an agreement with Australian company Syrah Resources to purchase graphite from its mine in Mozambique, aiming to reduce reliance on China. The deal involves Tesla buying 8,000 tons of graphite per year from Syrah's Louisiana processing plant starting in 2025. This move is part of Tesla's strategy to increase its battery production capacity in the U.S. amid a global race for electric vehicle manufacturing. The agreement is seen as a strategic step to shorten supply chains and secure raw materials for batteries, as demand for electric vehicles grows. Despite the deal, Tesla will continue to buy batteries from other manufacturers, including Panasonic. The partnership is also significant for Syrah Resources as it provides a non-Chinese buyer for its graphite, while Tesla continues to have a strong market presence in China.

Factory workers at the Dugongo Cimentos cement plant in Mozambique have been subjected to exploitative labor conditions, including being virtually held captive since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite government support and the plant's official opening, workers report grueling conditions, inadequate pay, and being forced to stay away from their families. The plant, backed by Chinese and Mozambican companies, has also been accused of bypassing environmental regulations and displacing local communities. The article highlights the broader issues of labor exploitation, government corruption, and the negative impact on local communities.

Violence in Mozambique's Cabo Delgado province is escalating with reports of beheadings and kidnappings by ISIL-linked fighters. Despite President Filipe Nyusi's visit and humanitarian assistance, the conflict continues unabated. The United Nations has called for investigations into the atrocities. The region's strategic importance is underscored by gas projects led by Total and ExxonMobil, which are now at risk. A development project by Yara was cancelled, highlighting the government's failure to leverage natural gas for domestic development. The conflict has killed over 2,000 people and displaced 355,000. Human rights abuses by both insurgents and government forces have been reported. Mozambique's government has created an economic development agency for the north, but with the ongoing violence and investor retreat, a resolution seems distant.

The article discusses the online casino industry in South Africa, highlighting the best platforms for South African players. It emphasizes the importance of security, licensing, and regulation in choosing online casinos. The article also covers the types of games offered, the legality of online casinos, and the availability of casino bonuses. It provides insights into the gambling revenue in South Africa, which is expected to rise to R30 billion in 2019, and compares it with the gambling markets in Nigeria and Kenya. The article also touches on the challenges faced by the industry, including illegal online gambling and competition from other betting facilities. It concludes by noting the changing dynamics of the gambling industry in these regions and its correlation with economic conditions.

The article discusses Mozambique's looming debt crisis, highlighting the country's precarious financial situation exacerbated by a series of foreign-currency loans amounting to 15% of its GDP. The initial loan was intended for a fishing fleet but was mismanaged, leading to the state-owned tuna-fishing company EMATUM admitting it could not repay its debt. A government bond swap was arranged, but the discovery of Mozambique's secret borrowing of an additional $1.4 billion shocked the IMF and international donors, resulting in frozen aid disbursements. The situation is worsened by the resurgence of civil war, drought, and the slow development of oil and gas reserves. Credit Suisse and VTB face criticism for their role in arranging the bond sales without sufficient disclosure to investors.