Mozambique Prepares for Pivotal Elections Amid Conflict and Crisis

As Mozambique heads to the polls, voters face the dual challenges of an ongoing insurgency and severe drought conditions.

Nearly 17 million Mozambicans will vote for a new president and parliament on Wednesday, with hopes for peace in the conflict-ridden Cabo Delgado province.
The country has been battling a jihadist insurgency linked to the Islamic State since 2017, displacing 1.3 million people and causing widespread devastation.
Candidates have prioritized addressing violence, but none have detailed specific plans to end the insurgency.
Corruption scandals, including the 'tuna bond' affair, continue to overshadow the ruling Frelimo party, which is expected to maintain power.
Severe drought, worsened by El Nino, has left 1.3 million people in Mozambique facing acute food shortages, adding to the country's challenges.