Joburg/Maputo — When a group of suspected Islamist militants beheaded 10 villagers in Mozambique’s gas-rich north late last month, it ratcheted up concerns that spreading attacks in the remote region could threaten a potential $30bn in investment. Anadarko Petroleum and Eni, which are developing separate offshore gas projects near the Tanzanian border, say they have not been affected by the violence in Cabo Delgado province. London-listed explorer Wentworth Resources says it has not been able to gain access to its onshore licences near the town of Mocimboa da Praia, due to safety concerns as a result of the attacks. "This problem is not going to go away and is increasingly becoming a regional problem," says Nigel Morgan, director of Rhula Intelligent Solutions in the capital, Maputo. "This is a risk issue for oil and gas investors in Cabo Delgado." The assaults began in October, when a group of men armed with guns, knives and machetes targeted police stations in Mocimboa da Praia, l...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.