Maputo, Feb. 18, 2026 (Lusa) - Mozambique faces challenges of "political and social polarisation" and "terrorism," the Minister of Planning and Development acknowledged on Wednesday, praising the contribution of northern European countries in resolving these problems.
"We cannot fail to mention that we face significant internal challenges, from extreme weather events such as the recent floods and cyclones that have affected the country since the second half of January, pockets of instability and terrorism in some districts of Cabo Delgado, to some social and political polarisation that requires dialogue, institutional calm and the strengthening of collective trust," said Salim Valá.
The minister was speaking in Maputo at the opening of the Mozambique-Nordic Countries conference, organised by the Foundation for Community Development (FDC), and praised the efforts of these European countries in supporting Mozambique.
"Recognising this reality is a sign of pragmatism and maturity. Throughout our recent history, we have overcome conflicts, economic crises and extreme shocks with resilience, strategic vision and the ability to learn. We have always counted on the collaboration of friendly countries such as the Nordic countries, which have given us ideas, valuable experiences and firm and timely support," said Valá.
Despite the recognised challenges, Minister Valá said that the African country now has the opportunity to transform its economic structure, reduce poverty and social inequalities, and consolidate an inclusive and sustainable development model, advocating for investment in youth.
"Mozambique is a country of young people. That is precisely where its greatest opportunity lies, in better exploiting the demographic dividend," said the Minister of Planning and Development, noting that 66.7% of the population is under 25 years of age.
"If we invest correctly in education, professional training, financial inclusion and entrepreneurship, we can significantly accelerate growth and reduce inequalities," added the minister.
In the same statement, Valá called for concrete support for projects involving young women, noting that they sustain the country's real economy and arguing that it is necessary to transform youth into productive workers as a strategy to redefine Mozambique's future.
"For us, strategic planning is a central instrument of public action that guides choices, aligns policies and ensures that growth translates into well-being. We recognise the existence of persistent challenges: territorial inequalities, climate vulnerability, dependence on poorly processed resources, insufficient modern infrastructure and limitations in human capital," the minister pointed out.
In this regard, Mozambique seeks to draw on the experience of Nordic countries to combine an open and competitive economy with social cohesion, gender equality, and institutional trust, and promises to continue investing in education for economic transformation.
Valá recalled that Mozambique had the support of the Nordic countries in its struggle for freedom and self-determination, noting that they had always been "first-rate partners," a relationship that had endured for over 50 years of national independence, and that cooperation had brought concrete results for human development.
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