The Political Economy of Natural Resource Extraction in Post-Eighties Mozambique: A Socioeconomic Analysis

The Mozambican economy has historically been heavily reliant on natural resource extraction, particularly from its abundant mineral wealth. The study employs qualitative research methods to analyse historical data and interviews with key informants from various sectors. A notable theme emerging from the analysis is the significant impact of foreign investment in mineral extraction on local employment patterns, with a substantial proportion (over 40%) of affected workers transitioning from subsistence farming to mining-related jobs over a decade. The research highlights how state policies often prioritise economic growth over community well-being, leading to uneven distribution of benefits and increased social tensions. Policy recommendations include strengthening local governance structures and enhancing compensation schemes for affected communities.