The threats of Northern Mozambique terrorist insurgencies for Mozambique and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.

Abstract

Terrorism is a global phenomenon. Since the SADC member states have gained independence from the chains of colonialism, the region has been characterised by the near absence of terrorism. The dominant perspective among academics and practitioners is that terrorism is prevalent in developed nations such as the West. This is due to their advanced economic and social systems, making it possibly more accessible for the extremists. However, recently, there has been a shift. Terrorist activities have expanded even to less developed nations, like in Africa. The study will examine the threats of Northern Mozambique terrorist insurgencies as the conflict can grow and transform into a serious regional conflict that would destabilise the SADC region and Africa. The literature focuses on the different causes of the recent conflict and the response. Some have further ventured into providing resolutions. Guided by capacity theory, this study aims to contribute to the debate on Mozambique's current terrorist insurgencies. The study will identify possible threats posed by terrorists to Mozambique and the SADC region as an interconnected community. The study will further assess Mozambique's state capacity as a sovereign state and the Southern African Development Community’s (SADC) regional capacity to deal with violent extremism. A qualitative approach is adopted to ensure a comprehensive interpretation of data. The study is desktop by setting. Secondary data sources were used, mainly the official SADC communique on the conflict, peer-reviewed articles, books, news articles, and reports by humanitarian organisations on the conflict since 2017. The data gathered from the existing literature was analysed using the thematic analysis method. The findings show a strong correlation between state/regional capacity and lack of resources and their investment. The study explores local and regional organs, as it places importance on regionalism in dealing with extreme violence. The data shows that Mozambique and SADC have measures in place to deal with violent conflict; however, there were no direct measures or institutions designed to handle terrorism.