SUGAR-WHITE beaches, waving palm trees, ice-cold beer, magical diving and fishing spots, friendly people – the country has long been a sought-after holiday destination for South Africans, a tropical paradise right on our doorstep.But the picture in Mozambique, which experienced a promising economic boom just a few years ago, now looks alarmingly different.
The country has become a virtual no-go zone for tourists as scenes of unrest after the recent elections play out regularly on our screens – and the country is bleeding economically. We look at what’s going on and how it affects SA.
LONG-TERM CHALLENGES
Mozambique’s crises “largely stem from systemic corruption under Frelimo”, says David Matsinhe, a Mozambican professor of African studies at Canada’s Carleton University.
“Decades of mismanagement, embezzlement and patronage have left institutions weak and unable to address pressing social and economic crises.
“The government has neglected the development of inclusive, accountable governance and equitable infrastructure, especially in Cabo Delgado province, where citizens have become vulnerable to extremist groups. Mozambique is a fragile state unable to withstand mounting internal and external pressures”.
Economic growth fell from 7% in 2014 to 1,8% in 2023. More than 60% of Mozambicans live in poverty.
THE CURRENT CRISIS
Since gaining independence 49 years ago, this former Portuguese colony has faced numerous challenges. One is the bloody jihadist insurgency that’s been raging in the far north of the country since 2017. But since the elections in October the entire country has been a powder keg, says Professor Theo Neethling, a political expert from the University of the Free State.
This story is from the 30 January 2025 edition of YOU South Africa.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the 30 January 2025 edition of YOU South Africa.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
MEET LITTLE EMILY-ROSE
Widowed rugby legend Errol Tobias has become a dad again at 74 after finding love with Ro-Andria
I HAVE FOUND PEACE
Her husband shot her in the back and changed her life forever, but a little dog has helped heal Elsanne's heart
STILL BREAKING OUT?
We asked a dermatologist for advice on coping with adult acne
NO MORE MR NICEPOOL
It doesn't look like the mudslinging between It Ends with Us co-stars JUSTIN BALDONI and BLAKE LIVELY is going to die down any time soon
OBAMA DRAMA!
Rumours are swirling that their marriage is on the rocks
MEDDLE POWER
It's no longer enough for Elon Musk to be the world's richest man - he wants to have a say in how the planet is run
THERE ARE NO EXCUSES
This high-achieving matriculant won't let her disability get in the way of her dreams
SIMPLY OUTRAGEOUS
The Jerry Springer Show changed television forever but it was also a crazy circus that was totally out of control. How do the team that made it feel about it now?
How your brain 'washes' itself as you sleep
WE ALL know how important sleep is for our well-being.