Energy-Food Challenges and Future Trends in Mozambique and in the Maputo Province

Mozambique is one of the richest countries in sub-Saharan Africa in terms of natural resources and agro-ecological assets. However, the country does not look on track for the achievement of the SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and 7 (affordable and clean energy) by 2030. The population with access to electricity is around 30%, while 1.9 million people are estimated to be in high levels of acute food insecurity, with a strong imbalance between urban and urban areas. The Maputo Province, being the economic centre of the country, faces an above-average condition in respect to other areas of Mozambique. The policy frameworks as regards both energy and food production are indeed mainly focused on the development of the Great Maputo area. At the same time, major weaknesses hindering a more sustainable and even access to basic resources in this area are related to a) the ongoing use of coal and biomass for cooking purposes and the difficulties in adopting more clean and renewable energy sources; b) the impact of climate change, water scarcity and land / water competition on small-scale subsistence farming, as well as land-grabbing issues related to the presence of transnational food companies. In this context, the main challenge for policymakers is to translate the richness and availability in resources into effective policies, to support local economic activities and enable sustainable development also in terms of clean energy, and healthy and nutritious food access. Based on insights from “Boa_Ma_Nhã, Maputo!” project, this chapter focuses on these two interrelated dimensions of the WEF nexus (Energy and Food), focusing on specificities of the Great Maputo area. The essay further discusses future patterns provided by authoritative institutions to provide insights on potential criticalities and challenges to be overcome and orient more integrated and sustainable energy and food security-related policies