AGP Executive Report

Mozambique–China Trade Push: Hunan and Mozambique held a China (Hunan)-Mozambique Economic and Trade Matchmaking Conference in Maputo, signing 11 cooperation deals covering culture, energy, infrastructure and industrial parks. Agribusiness Mechanisation: Hunan’s Zoomlion is using FACIM to expand agricultural machinery sales in Mozambique, aiming to make mechanisation affordable for small and large producers via local partnerships. Fuel Infrastructure for SADC: Presidents Daniel Chapo and Emmerson Mnangagwa will launch the second phase of the Mozambique–Zimbabwe pipeline expansion in Nhamatanda, boosting Beira-Feruka pumping capacity from 3m to 5m cubic metres and adding new pumping stations to raise regional fuel transport capacity by 67%. Power Market Entry: Abu Dhabi’s ePointZero agreed to buy 90% of Azura Power, giving it a controlling stake in 175MW of Azura’s Mozambique generation alongside assets in Nigeria and Senegal, subject to approvals. Digital Backbone Funding: WIOCC secured $300m from Africa Finance Corporation and Vision Invest to expand open-access fibre, data centres and subsea infrastructure across Africa, with Mozambique Telecom listed among shareholders. Women, Rights and Accountability: Ahead of UNGA81, a SHE & Rights session warned that “family/values/sovereignty” narratives are being used to dilute women’s and girls’ rights, stressing implementation and accountability. Soil Science for Farmers: Through SoilFER, Mozambican women scientists at IIAM are strengthening soil testing and training to help farmers improve productivity, including cassava-focused research.

Fuel Infrastructure: Presidents Mnangagwa and Chapo are set to launch the second phase of the Beira-Feruka pipeline expansion in Nhamatanda, Sofala, boosting capacity from 3 million to 5 million cubic metres a year and adding new pumping stations to strengthen regional fuel supply across SADC. Central Banking Shake-up: Chapo reversed the appointment of Waldemar de Sousa as Bank of Mozambique governor within 24 hours, naming Felisberto Dinis Navalha instead, amid a storm of “hidden debts” accusations. Gender & Rights Ahead of UNGA: A SHE & Rights session warned that “family, values and sovereignty” narratives are being used to dilute women’s and girls’ rights, stressing the need for implementation and accountability. Agriculture Science for Women: Through SoilFER, Mozambican women scientists are training and using lab-based soil testing to improve cassava and broader farm productivity. Energy & Power Investment: ePointZero agreed to buy 90% of Azura Power, which operates 175MW in Mozambique plus assets in Nigeria and Senegal, pending regulatory approvals. Trade Facilitation: Mozambique and neighbours agreed a customs-to-customs data exchange roadmap to cut border delays and logistics costs. Security Advisory: The US keeps northern Mozambique on Level 4 “Do Not Travel” for parts of Cabo Delgado and surrounding areas due to militant threats.

Bank of Mozambique Shake-up: Mozambique reversed course on its central bank leadership, withdrawing Waldemar de Sousa’s appointment and naming Felisberto Dinis Navalha as governor, with Navalha due to be sworn in Wednesday as the country grapples with inflation and debt pressures. Trade and Investment Push: Mozambique’s FACIM 2026 continues to draw regional business, including 20 Zimbabwean companies seeking deals in sectors from manufacturing to energy, while Brazil’s ApexBrasil pledged a new wave of Mozambique-Brazil economic partnerships. Foreign Currency Focus: President Daniel Chapo told FACIM that Mozambique must boost domestic production and exports to generate more US dollars and reverse the balance of payments. Regional Customs Deal: Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe agreed a roadmap for customs-to-customs data exchange to cut border delays and logistics costs. Security and Travel Warning: The US updated its travel advisory for Mozambique, keeping most of the north at Level 2 but placing parts of Cabo Delgado and surrounding areas at Level 4 “Do Not Travel.” Energy Links: Eskom says it wants industrial demand back, including possible renewed power supply to Mozambique’s Mozal smelter within a year if agreements are finalised.

Banking Leadership: Waldemar de Sousa has been named the new governor of the Bank of Mozambique, replacing Rogerio Zandamela, in a key reshuffle for the country’s financial oversight. Electricity Trade: Mozambique–Malawi’s 400KV power interconnection is now fully built and energised, with commercial tariff talks still under way before full trading begins. Politics in Court: Venâncio Mondlane’s trial is set to test Mozambique’s Supreme Court as the case could reshape the opposition landscape, with calls for live broadcasting raising the stakes for transparency. Regional Diplomacy: South Africa’s xenophobia apology to Mozambique’s President Daniel Chapo has sparked scepticism, as anti-migrant violence continues to strain SADC ties. Health Policy: WHO marks African Traditional Medicine Day, urging stronger research, regulation and investment so traditional care can better support universal health coverage. Trade and Growth: Zimbabwe and Mozambique are urged to turn FACIM proximity into real business links, using corridors to cut costs and build regional value chains. Poverty Watch: Mozambique is listed among countries with very high extreme poverty rates, underscoring the scale of the social challenge.

Mozambique Politics: Mozambique’s Council of State has lifted the immunity of Venancio Mondlane, clearing the way for him to face trial on five criminal charges tied to post-election demonstrations, after the Supreme Court issued a summons. National Unity & Youth: President Daniel Chapo says national unity is key to Mozambique’s survival and growth, pointing to school sports as a way to build cohesion among young people. Infrastructure & Connectivity: Japan’s JICA will disburse 1.691 billion yen (about US$10.4m) to rebuild the Natete bridge in Nampula’s Ribáue district, including road access and riverbank protection to boost trade and climate resilience. Regional Security: At an AU summit in Luanda, leaders pushed for urgent reforms to Africa’s peace and security architecture, including early warning and sustainable financing, with northern Mozambique cited among instability hotspots. Anti-Illegal Fishing: Namibia has yet to pay its SADC contribution for a Maputo-based centre fighting illegal fishing, despite in-kind support. Energy Deal Watch: An Abu Dhabi firm is buying 90% of Nigeria’s Azura Power, underlining Gulf interest in regional power markets.

AU Peace Funding Debate: Rwanda’s representative told the African Union that ending conflicts is also about predictable financing, not just diplomacy, as leaders meet in Luanda to adopt an action plan on conflict prevention and resolution, with Mozambique flagged among the security hotspots. Mozambique Conservation Protest: iSimangaliso’s community protests are being linked to a governance failure in co-management, with residents citing broken trust over consultation, benefit sharing and livelihoods after park actions such as tree cutting. Mozambique Education Push: President Daniel Chapo opened the national school sports festival in Maxixe, arguing education should form “complete people” beyond exams, with promises of more investment in infrastructure, teachers and talent identification. Digital Access: Google expanded its free AI Plus offer to students across 27 African countries, including Mozambique, giving access to Gemini tools and cloud storage. Regional Climate Warning: Southern Africa’s seasonal outlook points to below-normal rainfall risks across parts of the region, including Mozambique, raising pressure on farming and water planning. Ports and Trade: ICTSI signed to buy full ownership of TLG, a port and cargo operator with Mozambique operations, as global investors keep targeting Southern Africa’s logistics.

AU Conflict Agenda: President John Dramani Mahama has arrived in Luanda for the AU’s 21st Extraordinary Session, where leaders will agree an Action Plan and Implementation Matrix to strengthen conflict prevention and resolution, with Mozambique named among the security hotspots. SADC Governance Push: South Africa’s Public Service Commission says public service reform across SADC needs real consequence management to ensure delivery on education, healthcare, safety and infrastructure. Mozambique Energy Access: Mozambique reports electricity access has risen to about 22.7 million people (66.9%) from 9.8 million in 2019, driven by EDM electrification efforts, as the country targets universal access by 2030. Regional Climate Warning: Southern Africa faces a higher chance of below-normal rainfall in 2026/27, including Mozambique, raising pressure on farming and water planning. Ports Deal: ICTSI has signed to buy full ownership of TLG, an integrated port and cargo operator with Mozambique, Namibia and South Africa operations, pending approvals.

AU Conflict Talks: President John Dramani Mahama has arrived in Luanda for the AU’s 21st Extraordinary Session, aimed at adopting a continent-wide action plan to strengthen conflict prevention and resolution, with Mozambique among the security backdrops. Climate Outlook: Southern Africa is bracing for a hotter, drier 2026/27 summer, with SARCOF-33 warning of below-normal rainfall across Zimbabwe and much of the region, including Mozambique, raising risks for crops and water. Electricity Access in Mozambique: Mozambique reports electricity access has risen to about 22.7 million people (66.9% of the population), up from 9.8 million in 2019, as EDM expands the national grid toward universal access by 2030. Tech for Students: Google is expanding its free Google AI Plus offer to students in 27 African countries, including Mozambique, with Gemini tools and cloud storage. Ports and Trade: ICTSI has signed to buy full ownership of TLG, a port and cargo operator with operations across Mozambique, Namibia and South Africa, pending approvals. Sports Streaming: DAZN secured rights to broadcast LaLiga EA Sports across Sub-Saharan Africa for three seasons, starting this weekend, including Nigeria and Mozambique’s region.

Mozambique Energy Access: About 22.7 million Mozambicans (66.9%) now have electricity, up from 9.8 million in 2019, as EDM and the government push for universal access by 2030. Anti-Corruption Watch: Malawi’s ACB summoned NOCMA CEO Emmanuel Matapa over a disputed $403,605 (K700m) payment linked to “fraudulent correspondence,” while police arrested two senior officials connected to the same matter. Ports and Trade: Philippines-based ICTSI agreed to buy 100% of TLG Acquisition Holdings, a port and cargo operator with facilities in Mozambique, Namibia and South Africa, pending approvals. Terrorism Advisory: The US renewed a travel warning urging citizens to avoid northern Mozambique, especially Cabo Delgado and parts of Nampula, citing terrorism, crime and weak health services. Media Freedom: A report says environmental journalists across sub-Saharan Africa face assaults and threats, including in Mozambique, tied to reporting on illegal mining and logging. Tech for Students: Google AI Plus free subscriptions expanded to 27 African countries, including Mozambique, for eligible students. Sports Streaming: DAZN secured LaLiga rights across 48 Sub-Saharan markets, starting this weekend and running through 2028/29.

Electricity Access Boost: Mozambique says electricity access has jumped to 22.7 million people (66.9% of the population), up from 9.8 million in 2019, as EDM expands the grid and pushes its “Energy for All” programme, with plans for at least 420,000 more connections by end-2026. Anti-Corruption Spotlight: Malawi’s ACB has summoned NOCMA CEO Emmanuel Matapa over a disputed K700m payment tied to “fraudulent correspondence,” while police have arrested two senior NOCMA officials in the same probe. Security Advisory for Northern Mozambique: The US warns citizens to avoid northern Mozambique, citing higher risks of terrorism, crime, health and unrest, especially in Cabo Delgado and parts of Nampula. Energy and Environment Pressure: A report flags growing threats to Mozambique’s mangroves and coastal protection from heavy mineral sands extraction, including claims of projects proceeding without proper environmental impact assessments. Mozal Revival Talks: South Africa’s IDC is in talks with former Mozal shareholders to potentially buy South32’s stake and revive the smelter, a major employer for Mozambique.

Public Finance Watch: Mozambique cut public-sector wage spending by 3.9% in the first half of 2026 to 107.2 billion meticais, as the Ministry of Finance pushes restraint on a wage bill covering more than 350,000 workers. Electricity Access: EDM says it aims to add at least 420,000 new electricity connections by end-2026, bringing access to about two million more people under its “Energy for All” push. Anti-Corruption: Mozambique’s ACB summoned Nocma CEO Emmanuel Matapa over a suspected $403,605 payment linked to “fraudulent correspondence,” as investigations widen around alleged abuse of office. Security and Travel: The US renewed a travel advisory urging citizens to avoid northern Mozambique, citing terrorism risk, weak health services and possible unrest. Energy Projects: Danish developer Eurowind walked away from a €1.2 billion renewable project after Castelo Branco rejected proposed sites, pushing talks to other municipalities. Agriculture and Climate: Mozambique is promoting greenhouses and boreholes to reduce reliance on rain-fed farming as climate change disrupts production cycles. Environment: A Mongabay probe says Chinese-linked mining in Mozambique’s Zambezi Delta destroyed mangroves for years after satellite alerts were ignored.

Frelimo Party Politics: President Daniel Chapo has pushed for Frelimo policies to deliver real economic results for Mozambicans, setting the roadmap for the party’s 13th congress in Nampula in July 2027 and outlining reforms including a nationwide membership audit. HIV Prevention in Maputo: Mozambique’s capital reports strong uptake of long-acting injectable PrEP, with parliamentarians monitoring rollout of lenacapavir at multiple health facilities. Environment and Mining Accountability: A Mongabay investigation links heavy sand mining in Mozambique’s Zambezia to major mangrove loss, raising fresh questions about enforcement and the impact of large-scale extraction. Regional Climate Watch: SADC braces for a dry, hot rainy season, with El Niño expected to bring below-normal rainfall across much of the region and wetter conditions mainly in northern areas, including parts of Mozambique. Aviation and Justice: Mozambique’s former Air Mozambique (LAM) managing director Pó Jorge has been formally charged with 31 financial and corruption crimes tied to alleged irregular payments and procurement. Digital Access: A report on internet freedom and ICT development flags Mozambique among the lowest performers for mobile and internet penetration in Africa.

Cabo Delgado Displacement: Mozambique has opened a two-day forum on the future of displaced people as the northern conflict enters its ninth year, with renewed attacks since late 2025 driving fresh waves of flight and humanitarian needs. HIV Prevention in Maputo: Uptake of long-acting injectable PrEP (lenacapavir) is reported as high across 27 Maputo health facilities, with the two-dose-per-year option boosting access and convenience. Mining and Environment: Mongabay links rapid mangrove loss in Zambezia to heavy sand mining, while separate reports show China expanding control of Mozambique graphite assets through a 70% stake acquisition in Triton Minerals. Governance and Economy: Government has approved regulations to make Mozambique’s Development Bank (BDM) operational, aiming to mobilise long-term finance and catalyse strategic investment. Justice and Accountability: Former Air Mozambique (LAM) managing director Pó Jorge has been charged with 31 financial and corruption crimes tied to alleged irregular payments, contracts and fleet-related misconduct. Regional Trade: Zimbabwean exporters plan to push deeper into Mozambique via FACIM 2026 in Maputo, seeking buyers and partnerships.

Cabo Delgado Displacement Crisis: Mozambique has opened a two-day forum on the future of displaced people as the conflict in northern Cabo Delgado enters its ninth year, with renewed attacks since late 2025 driving fresh waves of flight across all 17 districts and pushing humanitarian needs higher. Local Governance & Justice: Mozambique’s Supreme Court has summoned Venancio Mondlane, leader of Anamola, to face five criminal charges tied to post-election demonstrations in 2024, with proceedings expected within the next two to three months. Economic Policy: The government has approved regulations to make the Mozambique Development Bank (BDM) operational, positioning it to mobilise long-term resources and catalyse strategic investment. Energy & Local Content: ExxonMobil has earmarked about $4bn for local content in its Rovuma LNG Area 4 project, but Mozambique firms are warned they must upgrade to meet strict tender and quality standards. Telecom Sector: Mozambique has named Axian and Dubai investors as potential partners for Tmcel, as ministers seek a new strategic investor for the state-owned operator.

Telecom & Investment: Mozambique has approved a regulation to operationalise the Development Bank (BDM), aimed at mobilising long-term resources and catalysing strategic investment. State Operator Search: The government has also authorised finance and communications ministers to find a new strategic investor for publicly owned Tmcel, with potential partners including Axian Telecom and other named firms, and a 135-day deadline for a final proposal. Energy & Local Content: ExxonMobil has earmarked about $4bn for local content in its Rovuma LNG project in Cabo Delgado, with Mozambique’s business lobby warning firms to upgrade to meet tender standards. Courts & Politics: Mozambique’s Supreme Court has summoned Venancio Mondlane over five criminal charges tied to post-election demonstrations in 2024, with proceedings expected within months. Governance Clarity: Malawi’s MEC has denied social media claims that its chairperson Justice Annabel Mtalimanja was blocked from leaving for a SADC electoral meeting in Mozambique. Security & Crime: A phishing-as-a-service scheme targeting Apple device owners has been exposed, using AI voice calls to steal passcodes and 2FA codes. Regional Trade & Tourism: Tanzania is pushing deeper tourism cooperation with Mozambique, arguing integrated corridors could boost jobs and foreign-exchange earnings.

Xenophobia and migration: President Cyril Ramaphosa told Parliament that perpetrators of violence against foreign nationals will be arrested and charged, while also saying some anti-foreigner activity may be instigated from outside South Africa. Digital trust in Mozambique: Mozambique’s INTIC and Tablu Tech are working on MoDi Sign to modernise the country’s advanced digital signature system, aiming to strengthen secure digital identity and trust for public and private transactions. Health regulation boost: Mozambique’s medicines regulator ANARME reached WHO ML3, signalling a stable, well-functioning regulatory system for medicines and imported vaccines. Regional fuel security: Mozambique and Zimbabwe’s Beira-Harare corridor expansion will raise pipeline capacity by 67% to 5 million cubic metres by end-2027, with new pumping stations planned. Matola rivers rehabilitation: IMARP and JS Consultoria signed an MoU for an integrated environmental recovery project for Matola rivers, linking drainage, ecological restoration and community food security. Governance and infrastructure: Mozambique also signed an agreement for rehabilitation of Matola rivers, reinforcing the city’s push to tackle waterways and livelihoods. Sports (Mozambique in focus): Ethiopia submitted its bid to host Afcon 2028, with Mozambique listed among group opponents.