Mozambique's economic growth is strongly supported by the international community and private investment in a favourable political climate. However, the biggest obstacle to stable growth in the country is the ongoing prevalence of HIV/AIDS, the worrying health situation and a very low level of education leading to major inequalities.
Mozambique is now emerging from the public debt crisis of 2016, caused by the World Bank's discovery of hidden debts. At the time, most donors temporarily suspended their aid and the currency plummeted. However, for several years now, Mozambique has had one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa, although a high percentage of the Mozambican population is still living below the poverty line.
The climate is tropical to subtropical climate, with high temperatures on the coast for much of the year. Its geographical position makes it vulnerable to cyclones, which can sweep across the land causing destruction to homes, fields and other vital infrastructure. This was the case in March 2019 with the terrible cyclone Idai, and again in March 2023 with tropical storm Freddy, which affected more than 1.1 million people.
Relations between the main parties to the civil war have improved since 2019. The peace process is ongoing and concessions are being made to increase the level of independence of provinces and municipalities. However, active armed groups not party to the peace process continue to pose a threat to the civilian population.
Number of HI staff: 70
Programmed opened in: 1986
