In March 2020, Islamist insurgents seized control of Mocimboa de Praia, a significant town in northern Mozambique, close to a major $60 billion natural gas project involving foreign companies. The militants conducted an overnight attack, capturing a military base and hoisting their flag. In response, the Mozambican army and police initiated a counter-offensive. This marked the first time that Mozambican jihadists had targeted a major town, as they typically attacked villages and farms. Residents reported being trapped in the town, with fighters holding them in a mosque. The insurgency in Cabo Delgado province, which had been ongoing for three years, had resulted in hundreds of casualties and thousands of people being displaced. The militants referred to themselves as al-Shabab, but their connection to the larger Somali al-Shabab movement remained uncertain. Cabo Delgado, despite its poverty, possessed valuable untapped mineral resources. In 2010, Mozambique discovered extensive gas reserves in the Rovuma Basin, off the coast of Cabo Delgado. Foreign companies, such as ExxonMobil, had plans to invest significant sums in gas projects in the region.

Type of Data Point - News or Reportage

Mozambique jihadists seize key town in Cabo Delgado

Visit page of City/Town - Mocímboa da Praia

Inserted: 02-11-2023 20:11:03