Mozambique’s parliament recently approved draft legislation that seeks to extend the minimum period of compulsory military service from two to five years.
The government justifies this move as a means to enhance professionalism within the armed forces, particularly amid the ongoing insurgency that has plagued the country, particularly in the resource-rich north.
National Defence Minister Cristovao Chume explained to parliament that the extension of service time and the professionalization of the armed forces are crucial elements in developing troops capable of meeting the challenges of national security.
This legislative development is seen as a strategic response to the prolonged conflict in the northern Cabo Delgado province, where large gas deposits were discovered in 2010.
While all Mozambicans are required to register with the armed forces at the age of 18, not everyone is called upon for military service. Various factors, including health, educational pursuits, professional careers, and government requirements, determine who is enlisted.
The proposed law is still subject to potential amendments and awaits President Filipe Nyusi’s signature before becoming effective.
Mozambique has pinned significant economic hopes on its extensive natural gas reserves, touted as the largest south of the Sahara.
If fully exploited, the country has the potential to become one of the world’s top 10 gas exporters. However, the insurgency led by militants associated with the Daesh has impeded progress, resulting in significant human and economic costs.
Since 2017, over 4,700 people have lost their lives, and nearly a million have been displaced due to the insurgency.
Despite the government’s efforts, including deploying regional and Rwandan forces, and regaining control over much of the region, the conflict persists.
The 2021 attack on the city of Palma highlighted the ongoing security challenges, with sporadic raids and incursions by insurgents continuing to pose a threat to stability in the region.