Mozambique is experiencing a notable increase in business prospects, driven by a rapidly expanding economy and its abundant natural resources. The country is currently going through a significant transformation in its energy sector, with substantial investments f lowing into the exploration of natural gas and minerals. This comes despite serious challenges with safety and security in the country.According to Roelof van Tonder, director of market insight and development at Africa House, even though Total had declared a force majeure in the northern part of the country, it's evident that economic activity is on an upswing, and it's only a matter of time before this restriction is lifted. Like many other experts, he firmly believes that Mozambique's immense gas potential is impossible to overlook, and despite the numerous challenges, investments will keep pouring into the country.In addition to these energy projects, Mozambique has witnessed substantial progress and investments in its infrastructure, which include the enhancement and construction of roads, ports, and railways. Tiago Pocinho, Rangel Logistics Solutions country manager for South Africa and Zambia, said the country had firmly established itself as a pivotal hub for business opportunities within the southern African region. "We continue to invest in our Mozambican operations to ensure we are well-positioned to service the expansive projects happening in the country.”Armand Eksteen, general manager for J&J Transport, agrees saying the outlook for the country is extremely positive. “The continued growth and development of resources in the main markets is a testament to the importance of Mozambique as the key access point servicing the landlocked hinterland. The Port of Beira is a critical contributor to the most effective regional logistics solutions,” he said. Growing lithium exports out of Zimbabwe and demand for solutions in the Copperbelt continue to drive investment into the infrastructure in Beira. “The LNG gas projects in the North of Mozambique are expected to bring further value to the region and ultimately contribute to the world’s supply of natural gas.”While the country has faced some turmoil in recent years, particularly following the insurgency in 2021, it is still seen as a lot more stable than some of its neighbours. “Countries like Zimbabwe and Malawi have financial instability and forex limitations,” said Justin Jahme, regional operations manager for Transcom Sharif. “Volumes are consistently on the rise year after year, and the logistics sector is experiencing continuous growth, marked by improvements in service provision and enhanced efficiencies.”According to Dário Viegas, the managing director of Mozrail e Terminais, Lda, new projects continue to take off boding well for the overall outlook of the country. “The most recent is the Port of Chongoene project dedicated to heavy sands and undertaken by Dingsheng Minerais, a subsidiary of the AFECC group. Additionally, the LNG projects in the northern part of the country are gaining momentum. These initiatives are poised to generate employment opportunities and the much-needed revenue to support the government's strategic efforts aimed at fostering sustained and continuous growth.
