A Country at a Fork in the Road

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This synthesis aims to put together the different threads pursued throughout this volume and presents our institutional diagnostic. We note as point of departure that Frelimo’s continuing inability to promote agriculture and broad-based private sector growth helps explain why the country lacks a consistent domestic engine of inclusive growth. We also return to the fork in the road. Remaining on the present path would lead to increasing inequality, further regional imbalances, and possibly armed conflict. The alternative is to use the expected gas revenues effectively for poverty reduction. Political power and authority continue to be almost exclusively vested in Frelimo. This stands out as a deep factor in our diagnostic. It takes visionary and brave leaders to take on the necessary reforms. to put the country back on a favourable trend. The uniting capabilities that Frelimo at least once possessed are exactly what is needed now. While one may argue that changes identified here are not necessary for Frelimo’s hold on power, the implications of increasing inequality, fragmentation, and conflict, serve as a strong warning sign and incentive to act in the national interest.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationMozambique at a Fork in the Road : An Institutional Diagnostic
EditorsAntonio Cruz, Ines Ferreira, Johnny Flentø, Finn Tarp
Place of PublicationCambridge
PublisherCambridge University Press
Publication date2023
Pages301-350
Chapter12
ISBN (Electronic)9781009265799
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2023

ID: 383199313