Mozambique’s 2023 general elections, held on October 11, marked another chapter in the country’s journey toward democratic consolidation. However, the post-election period has reignited discussions about the role of youth in shaping the nation’s political future. With nearly 60% of the population under the age of 25, Mozambique’s youth represent not only a demographic majority but also a critical force for driving democratic participation and accountability. Yet, as the dust settles on the polls, questions remain about whether young Mozambicans are being adequately included in the political process.
A Generation at a Crossroads
The 2023 elections saw a voter turnout of approximately 50%, with youth participation being a mixed bag. While some young people turned out in large numbers, others expressed apathy, citing a lack of trust in political institutions and leaders. According to the National Election Commission (CNE), voter registration among youth was lower than expected, particularly in urban areas like Maputo and Beira. Despite being the largest demographic, young people often feel excluded from decision-making processes. Unemployment, which stands at around 40% for youth, remains a pressing issue, compounded by limited access to quality education and economic opportunities. These challenges have fueled frustration and a sense of disconnect from the political system.
Youth-Led Movements: A Glimmer of Hope
Despite these challenges, youth-led organizations and civil society groups have been working to amplify young voices and promote political engagement. Groups like the Mozambican Youth Parliament (Parlamento Juvenil) and the Association of Young Activists (AJA) have been instrumental in mobilizing young voters and advocating for issues like electoral transparency and youth representation.
During the 2023 elections, these organizations launched campaigns to educate young people about the importance of voting and to monitor the electoral process for fairness. Social media played a key role in these efforts, with platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp being used to share information and encourage participation.
Barriers to Participation
While youth-led initiatives have made strides, significant barriers to political engagement remain. Many young Mozambicans face economic hardships that make it difficult to prioritize political participation. Additionally, the political landscape is often dominated by older elites, leaving little room for young leaders to emerge.
The ruling FRELIMO party, which has been in power since Mozambique’s independence in 1975, has faced criticism for its lack of youth representation in leadership positions. While the party has made efforts to include young people in its ranks, critics argue that these efforts are often superficial and fail to address systemic issues.
The Post-Election Landscape
The 2023 elections resulted in a victory for FRELIMO, with President Filipe Nyusi securing a second term. However, the opposition RENAMO party and its leader, Ossufo Momade, have contested the results, alleging irregularities. This has further fueled skepticism among young voters, many of whom feel that their concerns are being ignored.
In the post-election period, there is an urgent need for the government to address the grievances of young people. Analysts argue that investing in youth-focused policies, such as education, job creation, and political training programs, could help bridge the gap between young people and the democratic process.
A Call to Action
As Mozambique moves forward, the inclusion of youth in the political process will be crucial for the country’s democratic stability and development. The post-election period presents an opportunity for leaders to listen to young voices and implement reforms that address their needs. The question now is whether Mozambique’s leaders will seize this moment to empower its youth—or risk perpetuating a cycle of disengagement that could undermine the country’s democratic progress.
Mozambique’s democracy cannot thrive without the full participation of its youth. While challenges such as voter apathy, political exclusion, and economic hardships persist, young Mozambicans are increasingly finding ways to make their voices heard. Digital activism, grassroots movements, and electoral engagement signal a shift toward a more politically conscious generation. To ensure long-term democratic stability, policymakers must actively involve young people in governance, remove barriers to political participation, and create opportunities for meaningful engagement. If Mozambique harnesses the potential of its youth, it can transition from a democracy marked by post-electoral conflict to one defined by inclusivity, accountability, and progress.