Growing anti-FRELIMO motivations, identified with the State, in the actions of radicalization and violence initiated by insurgent cells in various parts of the province were successively reported. Village chiefs attacked were generally identified as FRELIMO “collaborators”.

The Mwanis identify the Makonde, their non-Muslim neighbors and traditional enemies, with the party-state and feel victims of abuses and excesses against their rights and traditions by mining companies active in the area, a perception that has extended to gas projects development in Palma.

“Foreign” economic interests are connoted with generals of Maconde origin (formerly FRELIMO commanders) while locals consider themselves marginalized in the distribution of economic and social benefits arising from foreign investments in the region. READ MORE