Mozambique is about to implement voluntary principles on security and human rights, a measure that aims to guarantee peaceful coexistence between companies that exploit natural resources and local communities.
According to information from the Agência de Informação de Moçambique (AIM), the initiative aims to ensure that multinationals respect the rights of local populations, especially in areas affected by resettlement due to resource exploitation.
The permanent secretary of the Ministry of Justice, Constitutional and Religious Affairs, Justino Tonela, emphasised the importance of this adhesion during a seminar held on Monday (26) in Maputo.
‘There are often investments that jeopardise the rights of communities, even in resettlement neighbourhoods,’ said Tonela, stressing the challenges faced by local populations due to exploration activities.
In recent years, Mozambique has invested in the development of the extractive industry, with a focus on mineral resources and gas exploration.
Faced with this scenario, the government has been looking for mechanisms to promote harmonious coexistence between companies and communities, avoiding confrontations and guaranteeing the progress of projects without jeopardising the lives of the populations and state revenues.
‘Adherence to these voluntary principles will be crucial to attracting investment financed by international banks, which today demand compliance with these standards’
The voluntary principles on security and human rights are an initiative of the governments of the United States of America and the United Kingdom. Their implementation in Mozambique not only aims to improve relations between companies and communities, but also to avoid possible conflicts that could arise in exploration areas.
The seminar held in Maputo will be replicated in Pemba, in the province of Cabo Delgado, a region rich in natural resources such as gas, rubies, graphite and marble. It is hoped that similar events will take place in other regions of the country, extending the reach of this initiative.
