AGP Executive Report

AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Patrick Vieira’s Senegal opened his coaching debut with a 1-1 draw against Mozambique in Maputo, after Nicolas Jackson put Senegal ahead and Geny Catamo equalised late in the first half. COSAFA U20: Mozambique booked the 2027 CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations spot by reaching the COSAFA final, beating Namibia 3-0, and will face South Africa after the Amajita edged Zambia 4-2. Oil & Gas: Mozambique’s ENH and Brazil’s Petrobras signed an agreement for strategic collaboration across exploration, evaluation, development and production in the oil sector. Mining Reform: Mozambique is gathering international experience to formalise artisanal gold mining and eliminate mercury use under the PlanetGold project. Security Focus: President Daniel Chapo urged the Defence and Security Forces to stay disciplined as they tackle Islamist terrorism and other threats to sovereignty, including cybercrime and trafficking. Regional Watch: South Africa continues investigating a crash that killed two siblings from Donaghadee, with a Mozambican national also dying. Business & Finance: A report alleges foreign-owned spaza shops in South Africa moved R6.3bn illegally, with claims linking illicit flows to terrorist cells across the region, including Mozambique.

Oil & Gas: Mozambique’s ENH and Brazil’s Petrobras signed an agreement to set up strategic collaboration in the oil industry, including joint studies across exploration, evaluation, development, production and marketing. Security: President Daniel Chapo urged Mozambique’s Defense and Security Forces to stay disciplined and morally prepared to tackle Islamist terrorism and future threats, from trafficking and cybercrime to attacks on critical infrastructure. Mining Reform: Mozambique is gathering international know-how to formalize artisanal gold mining and cut mercury use under the PlanetGold project, targeting reforms over the next five years. AFCON 2027 Qualifiers (Mozambique): Senegal opened Patrick Vieira’s era with a 1-1 draw against Mozambique in Maputo, with Nicolas Jackson scoring and Geny Catamo equalising. COSAFA U-20 (Mozambique): Hosts Mozambique booked the COSAFA U-20 final after beating Namibia 3-0, setting up a final against South Africa. Regional Football: South Africa also reached the U-20 final by coming back to beat Zambia 4-2.

COSAFA U20 & AFCON qualification: Mozambique beat Namibia 3-0 in the COSAFA U20 semi-final in Maputo to reach the final and seal qualification for the 2027 CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations in Ghana; Martinho Começar scored, Diego Pelembe doubled, and Hissen Socrate added a third, setting up a Sunday final against South Africa after the Amajita beat Zambia 4-2. AFCON 2027 qualifiers (Mozambique focus): Mozambique held Senegal 1-1 in Patrick Vieira’s debut as Nicolas Jackson put Senegal ahead, but Geny Catamo equalised for the hosts before half-time. Energy cooperation: Mozambique’s ENH and Brazil’s Petrobras signed an agreement for strategic collaboration in the oil industry, including joint studies across exploration to marketing. Mining & environment: Government launched efforts to formalise artisanal gold mining and cut mercury use under the PlanetGold project, targeting reforms over the next five years. Security message: President Daniel Chapo urged the Defence and Security Forces to stay disciplined and morally prepared to tackle terrorism and other threats to sovereignty. ICT recognition: Sparc Systems Limited won ICT Company of the Year at the TICON Africa 2026 awards.

AFCON 2027 Qualifiers (Mozambique-Senegal): Patrick Vieira’s Senegal era began with a 1-1 draw in Maputo as Nicolas Jackson put the visitors ahead, but Geny Catamo equalised for Mozambique before half-time. Senegal pressed after the break but couldn’t break a solid Mozambican defence, leaving both sides level on points in Group J. Regional Football: Nigeria beat Madagascar 2-1 in Uyo, while Sudan edged Ethiopia 1-0 in Juba; Morocco and Algeria also won their openers. COSAFA U-20 (Mozambique): Mozambique reached the COSAFA U-20 final after a 3-0 semi-final win over Namibia, while South Africa also booked a final spot after a dramatic 4-2 comeback against Zambia. Health (Gavi): Mozambique was named the first-ever Gavi Leap Champion for health system reforms, including a shift to holistic immunisation budgets aligned with the national strategy. Security/Justice (Mozambique): An inquest in the UK heard a British contractor killed in a Mozambique jihadist hotel siege was “unlawfully killed,” with testimony focusing on his actions during the attack.

UN Diplomacy Shock: Dozens of delegations walked out of the UN General Assembly hall as Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu began his speech, with Mozambique among the countries leaving seats empty. Mozambique Drug Crisis: Mozambique’s drug watchdog says trafficking and consumption cases jumped 75% in the first half of 2026, with rising methamphetamine cases and seizures linked to routes from Asia and Latin America. Human Rights & Climate: UN Special Rapporteur Elisa Morgera announced an assessment plan on human rights in Mozambique, focusing on how climate pressures intersect with land, mining, petroleum and environmental rules. El Niño Health Risk: A study warns El Niño heat could kill dozens in the region, including projected deaths in Mozambique, as disaster agencies admit limited preparedness funds. AFCON Qualifiers (Mozambique): Mozambique hosts Senegal in AFCON 2027 qualifiers today, with other key matches across the continent also scheduled. Security & Justice: An inquest in the UK heard that a British contractor killed in Mozambique’s Palma attack died after “gallantly” giving up evacuation space for women and children. Sports Spotlight: South Africa’s Amajita beat Zambia 4-2 in a COSAFA U-20 semi-final in Mozambique, securing AFCON qualification.

Reproductive Health Funding: Governments and partners pledged over US$715 million at UNGA81 to expand family planning and maternal health services, including commitments from Mozambique. Mozambique Security & Accountability: An inquest in the UK ruled British contractor Philip Mawer was “unlawfully killed” during the 2021 Palma siege after he refused evacuation seats so women and children could go first, while his family pressed questions over rescue efforts involving TotalEnergies. Information Rights: Mozambique’s regional media access theme echoes as officials stress information as a fundamental right, with events marking Universal Access to Information Day. Sports—AFCON Qualifiers: Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz again demanded VAR after officiating criticism in AFCON qualifiers, highlighting ongoing fairness debates across the continent. Regional Governance: UN human rights work continued as the Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances concluded its 140th session, reviewing cases including Mozambique.

Cabo Delgado Security: Mozambique’s President Daniel Chapo used the UN General Assembly to call for more predictable international support to fight terrorism and rebuild the north, warning that insecurity keeps spreading and civilians are paying the price. Humanitarian Pressure: OCHA says armed-conflict incidents in Cabo Delgado rose 10% in the first half of 2026, with abductions increasingly used for ransom and forced recruitment. Economy & Growth: The government projects 9.5% growth in 2029, driven by new gas projects, while inflation is expected to ease and public finances improve. Finance & Stability: The EU met the new governor of the Bank of Mozambique to assess cooperation as the central bank balances price stability, financial stability and confidence in the currency. Mining & Resources: Ruby output in the first half of 2026 jumped 61% year-on-year to over 3.1 million carats, led by Cabo Delgado operations. Sports (Mozambique in focus): Mozambique’s Under-20 team booked a COSAFA qualifier semi-final spot on fair play points, setting up a clash with Namibia, while the Young Warriors’ regional campaign continues to shape the 2027 AFCON build-up.

AFCON Qualifiers (Mozambique in focus): Mozambique secured a Cosafa U-20 semifinal spot by edging Angola on Fair Play points after both finished on six points, setting up a semi-final against Namibia, while South Africa and Zambia also advanced with perfect group records. Coaching Shake-up: The CAN 2027 qualifiers kick off with 21 new coaches, including Patrick Vieira taking charge of Senegal with away games against Mozambique and Ethiopia. Security & Borders: South Africa’s Border Management Authority partnered with tech and defense firms to boost surveillance at Beitbridge and Lebombo, while separate operations seized nearly a tonne of dagga and illicit tobacco, plus suspected heroin. Energy Deal: Petrobras signed a two-year strategic cooperation memorandum with Mozambique’s ENH to study, develop and market oil and gas. Climate & Health: WHO warns El Niño impacts in Africa are a Grade Three emergency, with Mozambique among countries facing high or very high risks from flooding, drought, disease and food insecurity. Sports (COSAFA U-20): South Africa beat Eswatini 2-0 to reach the semis, and Zambia beat Botswana 3-1 to set up a decisive semi-final against South Africa. Mozambique-UN Diplomacy: President Daniel Chapo met UN chief António Guterres in New York to reinforce peace dialogue and international agenda talks.

Oil & Gas Deal: Petrobras has signed a new pact with Mozambique’s ENH, deepening investment links in the sector. Climate & Health: WHO warns El Niño impacts in Africa are a Grade Three emergency, with Mozambique among the high-risk countries facing flooding, drought, disease outbreaks and hunger. UN Diplomacy: Mozambique President Daniel Chapo met UN chief António Guterres in New York as Guterres delivered a final UNGA warning that polluters must be held accountable. SME Financing: ITC and Access Bank launched a three-year plan to expand SME finance, market access and skills across 14 countries including Mozambique, starting with a Ghana pilot. Digital Government: Mozambique’s public services digital transformation plan is set to be ready by 2029, with the Citizen Portal already hosting services. Wildlife Crime: SERNIC detained 12 people in Inhambane over alleged elephant tusk and hippo tooth trafficking, with suspected buyers targeted in Asia. AFCON Focus: Senegal kick off 2027 qualifiers against Mozambique in Maputo on Friday, with Patrick Vieira taking charge. Regional Energy Pressure: South Africa’s gas “cliff” warning highlights LNG and pipeline readiness concerns affecting the wider region.

Mozambique Courtroom Rules: Mozambique’s Supreme Court refused a request to broadcast Venâncio Mondlane’s election-related trial live, saying court recordings need judge approval and public justice doesn’t grant defendants a national TV platform. Road Safety Push: A Catholic bishop in Mozambique urged shared responsibility after a surge in deadly road accidents, noting authorities suspended traffic officers after an Inhambane crash and calling on passengers to obey safety stop orders. Junior Flames AFCON Race: Mozambique’s Junior Flames boosted their 2027 AFCON U-20 qualifiers hopes with a 5-0 win over Mauritius, while Malawi faces a must-win, seven-goal swing scenario against Comoros to stay in the semi-final race. Conservation Snapshot: Kenya ranked eighth in Eastern and Southern Africa for protected land coverage, with nearly 14% of its territory conserved—figures that place Mozambique among the higher terrestrial coverage countries. Tech for Jobs: Yango Fellowship wrapped in Abidjan with 24 fellows (including Mozambique) pitching locally rooted projects like cross-border job matching and smart waste collection.

Mozambique Justice: Mozambique’s Supreme Court has rejected Venâncio Mondlane’s bid to have his trial broadcast live on TV and social media, though media can cover the hearing and the public can access the courtroom. Terror Aftermath: An inquest into the 2021 Palma attack heard that helicopter rescue for British victim Philip Mawer was “probably” possible if fuel had been available, with delays blamed on fuel shortages and complex supply arrangements. Sports—U20 Focus: Zambia’s Under-20 coach Perry Mutapa says his side will aim for a perfect group finish against Botswana in Maputo after wins over Malawi and Comoros. Cosafa U20—Mozambique Angle: Amajita coach Raymond Mdaka urged his team not to take Eswatini for granted in the final group match, needing only a point to seal a semifinal spot. Afcon Qualifiers Schedule: 2027 AFCON qualifiers kick off this week with round-one fixtures across 24–26 September, including Mozambique’s games in the opening window. Urban Services: Maputo may get AfDB support to improve solid waste management and sanitation, including better use of wastewater treatment capacity. Energy & Diplomacy: President Daniel Chapo invited Brazilian firms to invest in Mozambique’s oil and gas, pitching industrialization, technology transfer and training. Tech & Jobs: Yango Fellowship graduates from six countries, including Mozambique, showcased locally rooted AI projects in Abidjan.

Mozambique–World Bank Support: The World Bank says it will back Mozambique with $35m for medicines and supplies, plus financing for the $250m Greater Maputo Bus Rapid Transit, alongside water, drainage, sanitation, agriculture and public administration—while warning that salaries and debt could swallow 96% of next year’s tax revenue. Disaster Tech in Mozambique: A KOAFEC-funded drone training push is credited with helping northern Mozambique floods in 2026 deliver zero fatalities by giving local pilots real-time mapping and monitoring for rescue teams. Terror Fallout in Palma: An inquest in the UK heard that British project manager Philip Mawer was killed by an RPG while fleeing the Amarula Hotel siege in Palma in 2021, after he refused evacuation so women and children could go first. Regional Football (Mozambique-hosted): COSAFA U-20 qualifiers in Mozambique saw Eswatini edge Lesotho 3-2 with a stoppage-time winner, while Malawi bounced back to beat Botswana 3-0. AI Access Push: Global AI groups announced a five-year plan to let 3.4bn people use AI in their own language and voice.

Health & Governance: Mozambique President Daniel Chapo announced a nationwide distribution of a new shipment of pharmaceuticals and medical-surgical supplies to end chronic medicine shortages, with the first batch funded by a US$35m World Bank-backed investment and a strict call for oversight to stop theft and illegal resale. IMF Talks: The IMF has completed a 10-day technical mission in Maputo, sending “positive signals” for a potential new Extended Credit Facility deal, as officials discuss fiscal sustainability, debt, monetary policy, FX markets and reforms. Water Security: The government plans restrictions on water use ahead of worsening El Niño-driven drought risks, prioritising human consumption, health, critical food production and livestock watering. Urban Sanitation: Maputo Municipal Council says it collects only about 60% of the city’s daily waste, with plans to add 100 new dumpsters to cut the collection gap. Rule of Law: Niassa’s Secretary of State urged the PGR to intensify efforts against vigilantism amid mob violence fuelled by rumours. Tech & Industry: Movitel showcased 5G enterprise and public-sector services at FACIM 2026, including private networks, surveillance and smart operations. Diplomacy: Kyrgyzstan and Mozambique held their first political consultations in Bishkek, exploring trade, digitalisation, tourism, mining and climate cooperation.

El Niño Water Plan: Mozambique’s government says it will restrict water use to protect human consumption, health, critical food and livestock watering as El Niño threatens drought in the south and centre. Public Health Supplies: President Daniel Chapo announced a nationwide rollout of a World Bank-funded $35m shipment of medicines and medical-surgical supplies, with strict calls to stop theft and resale. IMF Talks: A 10-day IMF technical mission has ended with “positive signals” for a new Extended Credit Facility programme, as officials align fiscal and economic plans ahead of the Executive Board review. Waste Crisis in Maputo: Maputo Municipality admits it collects only about 60% of daily waste (around 1,366 tons), leaving 40% uncollected, and plans 100 new dumpsters to cut the gap. Vigilantism Warning (Niassa): Niassa’s Secretary of State urges the PGR to intensify efforts against mob violence driven by rumours, including alleged “human parts” claims. Medicine Theft Controls: Chapo’s distribution includes oversight measures to ensure supplies reach patients. COSAFA U-20: Namibia beat hosts Mozambique 1-0 in the qualifier, with Rashid Naobeb scoring early. Cassava Safety: A health explainer warns improperly processed cassava can release cyanide and is linked to konzo and poisoning risks. Catholic Canonisation Move: The cause for canonisation of Italian nun Sr Maria de Coppi, killed in Mozambique in 2022, will open next year.

AI in Education: Mozambique’s Education Ministry says it is drafting rules for AI use across schools and universities, due before the Council of Ministers before year-end, with a focus on generative AI and responsible, ethical use. IMF Talks: Mozambique’s Finance Ministry says an IMF mission has ended and hopes it will pave the way for a new support programme, with a possible follow-up mission in November to discuss conditions and targets. Mozambique in Regional Sports: The COSAFA U20 qualifiers are under way in Mozambique, with Zambia beating Malawi 2-0 in Maputo and both sides now turning to their next group matches. Russian Voting in Mozambique: Russians in Maputo began voting in Russia’s State Duma elections at the Russian Embassy polling station, with Ambassador Vladimir Tararov casting his ballot and calling for transparency. Cycling Spotlight: International riders are set for the MTN Khemani Road Classic in Eswatini, with cyclists from South Africa, Lesotho, Mozambique and Namibia confirmed. Security & Diplomacy: A dispute in Zimbabwe over a possible diplomatic posting for retired Lt-Gen Engelbert Rugeje has highlighted political sensitivities around the Maputo mission.

AI in Education: Mozambique is drafting rules for using AI across schools and universities, with a framework due before the Council of Ministers before year-end, aiming to protect education quality and ensure responsible, ethical use. IMF Talks: Mozambique’s Finance Ministry says an IMF mission has ended and hopes it will pave the way for a new support programme, with possible follow-up discussions in November and reforms expected to be central. Border Modernisation: A decree approved the Machipanda border modernisation concession under a public-private partnership, covering construction, operation and maintenance of integrated infrastructure at the Mozambique–Zimbabwe crossing in Manica. Public Transport Upgrade: Maputo broke ground on a China-built Bus Rapid Transit project, targeting major corridor improvements, congestion relief and safer transport, with electric buses planned for the initial phase and completion expected in 2028. Security & Diplomacy: Russia’s Africa Corps has expanded to new deployments including Mozambique, while a separate report highlights the growing role of intelligence agencies in African peace and security. Regional Football: Mozambique hosts COSAFA U-20 qualifiers in Maputo, with Namibia, Zambia and Mozambique posting winning starts.