I need a freelancer I am a freelancer Pricing News Intelligence

Tom Bowker

Maputo, Mozambique
Book Tom with Paydesk
See how it works

Book Tom with Paydesk

Make your booking securely through paydesk for these benefits:

1

Preferred Booking Channel

Tom is more likely to commit to assignments booked through paydesk, as it is a trusted platform that validates the seriousness and legitimacy of each engagement.
2

Insured Bookings for Peace of Mind

We provide basic insurance coverage with each booking on paydesk, giving both you and the media professional confidence and protection while they work for you.
3

Effortless Online Payment

Paydesk offers a payment protection system to ensure payments are only finalized when you are satisfied with the job completion. Freelancers trusts our process that guarantees their efforts are rewarded upon successful delivery of services

Still have questions?

Check FAQ
About Tom
I am a journalist based in Maputo, Mozambique. I co-founded and co-edit Zitamar News, the leading English-language news source on the country. Prior to founding Zitamar I served as Bloomberg's correspondent in Mozambique. I still freelance for a number of publications, focusing mainly on politics and business and economic news.
Languages
Bosnian English Croatian
+2
Services
Audio package (Radio / Podcast) Vox Pop News Gathering
+9
Skills
Business Finance Politics
+7
Portfolio

Frelimo’s disappointing election

08 Mar 2024  |  Zitamar News
Ruling party Frelimo plans to choose their presidential candidate in May, after previously considering March and April. The chosen leader is expected to become Mozambique’s next president following the October elections.

Frelimo presidential candidate to be chosen at ‘extraordinary’ meeting in May

08 Mar 2024  |  Zitamar News
Ruling party Frelimo will select its presidential candidate in May at an extraordinary meeting of its Central Committee.

Zitamar Week in Review, 3-8 March 2024

08 Mar 2024  |  Zitamar News
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.

Almost 100,000 flee the insurgency

06 Mar 2024  |  Zitamar News
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.

Wooing Muslim partners

05 Mar 2024  |  Zitamar News
President Filipe Nyusi's recent visit to Algeria is part of Mozambique's ongoing diplomatic efforts with Islamic countries in the Middle East and North Africa, following a previous visit to Saudi Arabia.

Democratic deadlines

26 Jan 2024  |  zitamar.com
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 economy needs space to grow

09 Nov 2023  |  Zitamar News
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.

Mozambique’s private sector calls for fuel price stabilisation fund

09 Nov 2023  |  Zitamar News
The president of CTA, Agostinho Vuma, advocates for the establishment of a fuel price stabilisation fund to help Mozambique's economy better manage external shocks.

Zitamar Week in Review: A difficult transition

05 Nov 2023  |  Zitamar News
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.

Elections leave Frelimo no closer to picking new leader

03 Nov 2023  |  Zitamar News
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.

Renamo should learn to tango

20 Oct 2023  |  Zitamar News
A court in the KaMavota district of Maputo annulled the official result of last week's local elections following complaints of fraud and wrongdoing by opposition party Renamo. The Democratic Movement of Mozambique (MDM) also testified in the case.

Falcons against doves in the elections aftermath

17 Oct 2023  |  Zitamar News
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.

Renamo gets popular in the south, as Frelimo denied a landslide

12 Oct 2023  |  Zitamar News
Renamo's increasing popularity in the south of Mozambique has hindered Frelimo's goal of securing all 65 municipalities. The results, if confirmed, indicate a significant shift in the political landscape.

A test for Mozambique’s democracy

11 Oct 2023  |  Zitamar News
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.

At least three killed in clashes as insurgents move north to Quissanga and Ibo

07 Oct 2023  |  Zitamar News
Islamic State-backed insurgents killed at least three members of the Mozambican security forces and one member of a local militia in Cabo Delgado province. The attacks caused panic, leading to the evacuation of government officials and VIPs. President Filipe Nyusi acknowledged the insurgent presence and their attempts to spread panic. Security forces have not yet responded to the insurgents' activities in Quissanga.

The winning machine limbers up

06 Oct 2023  |  Zitamar News
Mozambique's major towns and cities are set to elect municipal councils and mayors next week, with the elections serving as a significant indicator of the country's political direction. The introduction of municipal elections has allowed for some power sharing, primarily dominated by the Frelimo party, giving opposition parties a taste of governance and suggesting a willingness from Frelimo to share power.

Zitamar Week in Review, 2-6 October 2023

06 Oct 2023  |  zitamar.com
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.

Hidden debts' bills coming due

06 Oct 2023  |  Zitamar News
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.

The long wait for pensions

05 Oct 2023  |  Zitamar News
Over three years after the peace and reconciliation agreement between the Mozambique government and opposition party Renamo, only 27 ex-guerrillas have received pensions. Despite the demobilization of the last batch of guerrillas in June, many former fighters are still waiting for their pensions, with some having waited over a year. The delay affects 5,194 former guerrillas, highlighting the ongoing struggles in a country already facing significant poverty.

Mozambique Stock Exchange seeks major listers

05 Oct 2023  |  Zitamar News
The head of Mozambique’s stock exchange, Salim Vala, highlights the under-utilization of the Bolsa de Valores de Moçambique by companies, including major global players in the extractive industry, which are legally required to list local subsidiaries. Vala argues that enforcing these listings would enhance the exchange's credibility, citing the successful listing of Hidroelectrica de Cahora Bassa as a positive example, despite some recent less favorable listings.

Mozambique, Brazil's coming back

05 Oct 2023  |  Zitamar News
Brazil's renewed engagement with Mozambique under President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva marks a potential revival of the deep business ties that had previously unraveled due to corruption and failed projects. Lula's return could bring significant changes if he focuses on tackling hunger and poverty rather than ill-advised mega-projects. The article also highlights the historical context of Brazil-Mozambique relations, the impact of previous Brazilian administrations, and the current political landscape.

Total plays hard-ball as Mozambique says good to go

05 Oct 2023  |  Zitamar News
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.

Washington comes to Maputo

02 Oct 2023  |  Zitamar News
A team from the IMF has begun a staff mission in Maputo to monitor Mozambique’s progress under the programme signed in March 2022. Interest in the IMF's visits has waned compared to the past, despite the ongoing significance of the Privinvest debt scandal, which is currently on trial in London. Mozambique is pursuing $3.1 billion in damages from Privinvest.

Does making methanol make sense for Mozambique?

15 Sep 2023  |  Zitamar News
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.

Zitamar Week in Review, 10-15 September 2023

15 Sep 2023  |  Zitamar News
The Southern African Development Community's military mission has significantly disrupted terrorist activities in Cabo Delgado, leading to the return of displaced people. Proposals for a new railway line in Maputo by China Road and Bridge Corporation are under consideration, though economic viability is questioned. The Mozambican government will present its energy transition strategy at the COP 28 conference and is mobilizing funds for a new road to reduce dependence on the N1 highway. Indian mining company Vulcan Resources is facing criticism for cancelling contracts with local suppliers in Tete province.

Spend or save?

14 Sep 2023  |  Zitamar News
The governor of the Bank of Mozambique, Rogerio Zandamela, delivered a speech defending the bank's hawkish monetary policy and urging Mozambique to save more to withstand crises. His unscripted comments about donor fatigue, reported by Canal de Moçambique, have sparked controversy. Savana is set to publish a response from two Mozambican economists.

Mozambique’s Mex airline starts flying again after Embraer ‘unlocks’ planes

14 Sep 2023  |  Zitamar News
Mozambique’s Mex airline resumed operations after suspending all flights on 31 August, following an agreement on a repayment plan with Embraer.

The pollution problem

21 Aug 2023  |  Zitamar News
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.

UK prepares new Mozambique security policy

09 Aug 2023  |  Zitamar News
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.

Looming police strike threatens disaster

08 Aug 2023  |  zitamar.com
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.

A graphite shut-down

19 Jul 2023  |  zitamar.com
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.

Wheat worries

18 Jul 2023  |  Zitamar News
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.

Zitamar Week in Review, 24-30 June 2023

30 Jun 2023  |  Zitamar News
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.

Will rising costs derail Mozambique LNG?

27 Jun 2023  |  Zitamar News
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.

LNG project costs soar as Total considers Mozambique restart

27 Jun 2023  |  Zitamar News
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.

Zitamar Week in Review, 10-16 June 2023

16 Jun 2023  |  Zitamar News
A significant week in Mozambique saw the closure of Renamo's last base, marking an end to a historical chapter. The London case on 'hidden debts' remains unresolved, with no decision yet on Credit Suisse and Privinvest's request to strike out the case. Former finance minister Manuel Chang has not been extradited to the US, contrary to some reports. President Nyusi may face trial in London, pending legal arguments. Mozambique joined the International Coffee Organisation, boosting its young coffee industry. The Port of Pemba struggles with declining exports but finds hope in the mining sector. The political landscape shifts as Renamo's military threat diminishes, but concerns over electoral fraud persist.

Definitive peace?

15 Jun 2023  |  Zitamar News
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 seeks stability after decade of boom and bust

14 Jun 2023  |  Zitamar News
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 offers South Africa electricity from two floating power plants

13 Jun 2023  |  Zitamar News
Mozambique is preparing to install new generation capacity through two floating power plants, contingent on South Africa's willingness to finance the project.

Zitamar Week in Review, 29 May - 2 June 2023

02 Jun 2023  |  Zitamar News
Mozambique's fuel companies' association is assessing the impact of recent Bank of Mozambique decisions amid concerns of foreign exchange shortages. Thousands of health workers have gone on strike due to low salaries and lack of materials, with the health minister open to dialogue. Two foreign nationals were arrested with a cache of weapons in Manica province. TotalEnergies is expanding its presence in Mozambique's energy sector, while Mozambique's debt situation sees a positive shift with ENH's restructuring. International relations are highlighted by visits from Ukrainian and Russian foreign ministers. The Bank of Mozambique's increased reserve requirements raise concerns about the sustainability of commercial banks.

Mozambique’s problem? Too much money

01 Jun 2023  |  zitamar.com
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%.

Tongaat Hulett aims to sell Mozambique sugar operations this month

01 Jun 2023  |  Zitamar News
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.

Zitamar Weekly Review, 20-26 May 2023

26 May 2023  |  zitamar.com
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.

Total publishes landmark report on Cabo Delgado

23 May 2023  |  Zitamar News
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.

Zitamar weekly review, 13-19 May

19 May 2023  |  Zitamar News
The weekly review covers significant developments in Mozambique, including the decline of Plexus Cotton, impacting thousands of farmers, and the suspension of police basic training for three years, affecting employment opportunities. The docking of the sanctioned Russian ship Lady R in Beira has embroiled Mozambique in a political feud between the US and South Africa. Illegal immigration networks are exploiting new routes in Tete province. The government is seeking new investors for cotton production and strategic projects, while the disarmament process for Renamo guerrillas progresses.

How to measure corporate responsibility

18 May 2023  |  Zitamar News
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 prepares to close Gorongosa base

17 May 2023  |  zitamar.com
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 bank reappoints CEO after central bank vetoes replacement

16 May 2023  |  Zitamar News
BCI has reappointed its outgoing chief executive, Francisco Costa, to serve another term after the Bank of Mozambique vetoed the appointment of a replacement.

Panic at the hint of corruption

11 May 2023  |  Zitamar News
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.

Who’ll send the bailiffs round to SISE?

10 May 2023  |  Zitamar News
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.

Mozambique likely to privatise Tmcel, minister tells parliament

10 May 2023  |  Zitamar News
The Mozambican government is considering the privatization of Tmcel as the most viable option to prevent the telecom company from going bankrupt. This information was disclosed by a minister during a parliamentary session.

Saying the quiet part out loud

05 May 2023  |  Zitamar News
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced Japan's intention to fund counter-terrorism efforts in Mozambique's Cabo Delgado province, highlighting Japan's direct interest in securing the region for its companies involved in natural gas extraction. This marks a departure from the more diplomatically framed commitments of the European Union and other G7 countries. The specifics of Japan's support remain undisclosed.

A new era of industrial policy in Mozambique?

04 May 2023  |  Zitamar News
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.

Japan PM's electrifying visit to Mozambique

03 May 2023  |  Zitamar News
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is visiting Mozambique, marking his only southern African stop before Japan hosts a G7 summit. Despite setbacks in previous projects, Japan maintains significant interests in Mozambique's energy sector. Mitsui, part of the TotalEnergies-led consortium for Mozambique LNG, is a key player, with Japan likely to purchase some of the gas. Mitsui also has stakes in agricultural commodities trader ETG, which is bidding to build a new mega hydropower dam at Mphanda Nkuwa, competing against a consortium including TotalEnergies, EDF, and Sumitomo.

Is Celso Correia working for his boss, or for himself?

02 May 2023  |  Zitamar News
Celso Correia, the agriculture minister, is leading Frelimo's campaign for the upcoming municipal elections in Mozambique. The party has demanded victories in every municipality, with Correia's success potentially bolstering President Nyusi's chances for a third term. The analysis from CIP and Joseph Hanlon highlights the high stakes and strategic maneuvers involved. The article also notes the implementation of Zitamar's new tiered paywall strategy.

Did Boaventura Mucipo jump, or was he pushed?

27 Apr 2023  |  Zitamar News
Boaventura Mucipo, a prominent news anchor at STV, has resigned after 17 years, amid speculation about political pressure from within Frelimo. Mucipo had been sidelined following his coverage of Castigo Langa's critical remarks about extending presidential terms. He remains a partner at PR firm Mapiko and is rumored to be considering a role at FDC, a civil society organization recently in conflict with the agriculture minister.

Crunch time in London ‘hidden debts’ trial

26 Apr 2023  |  zitamar.com
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.

Lack of transparency mars new oil and gas exploration

17 Apr 2023  |  Zitamar News
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.

A new-look Zitamar News

14 Apr 2023  |  Zitamar News
Zitamar News has transitioned to a new platform to enhance user experience, including a simplified login process and the removal of copy protection on articles. New subscription models are introduced, offering more affordable access to content. The premium tier, now called Zitamar Pro, retains its price but includes comprehensive daily briefings and analysis on Mozambique.

Graça Machel speaks out

12 Apr 2023  |  Zitamar News
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.

Recovery plans for Mozambique's state airline and telco

06 Apr 2023  |  Zitamar News
Transport and communications minister Mateus Magala announced plans to bring in management consultants to turn around state airline LAM and telco Tmcel. The government also published a decree to enable pension payments to demobilised Renamo guerrillas, signaling a positive step forward. President of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema, is visiting Mozambique to participate in a business forum with President Filipe Nyusi.

Tesla inks deal to get key battery component outside China

16 Jan 2022  |  Post and Courier
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 inks deal to get key battery component outside China

15 Jan 2022  |  Winnipeg Free Press
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.

‘We’re Being Treated Like Slaves’: Factory Workers Stuck in Yearlong Lockdown

01 Jun 2021  |  www.vice.com
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.

Civilians reel as violence spins out of control in Mozambique

11 Nov 2020  |  www.aljazeera.com
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.

Tensions high as Mozambique votes in high-stakes elections

15 Oct 2019  |  www.aljazeera.com
Mozambique's elections are marked by high tensions and violence, with President Filipe Nyusi and the ruling Frelimo party expected to maintain power despite allegations of election fraud and corruption. The opposition Renamo party, led by Ossufo Momade, is poised for significant gains, particularly in provincial elections. The campaign has been marred by violence, including the murder of election observer Anastacio Matavel. Corruption scandals involving high-profile figures like Manuel Chang and Jean Boustani continue to overshadow the political landscape.

The Best South Africa Online Casino Bonuses for 2023

25 Jul 2017  |  Online Casino South Africa
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.

This was an exclusive I wrote for Zitamar News, the Mozambique-focused business publication that I founded with my wife in 2015.

Fishy finances

16 Jul 2016  |  The Economist
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.

Mozambique’s Invisible Civil War

06 May 2016  |  Foreign Policy
Mozambique is experiencing renewed conflict, with government forces accused of committing human rights abuses against civilians, including rape, murder, and arson. The violence has led to a refugee crisis, with thousands fleeing to Malawi. Investigations reveal that the government, not the Renamo rebels, is the primary aggressor, contradicting state media narratives. Testimonies from refugees and reports from organizations like the UNHCR and Human Rights Watch support these findings. Despite evidence, the Mozambican government denies responsibility and downplays the conflict as localized disturbances.
×

Tom's confirmed information

Financial institution
Verified Aug 2017
Joined
Jul 2017

Log in