Mozambique is strengthening its relationship with Xi Jinping’s China through a broad agreement that blends military collaboration, geological exploration, and industrial funding to tap into one of Africa’s richest resource zones, highlighting Beijing’s rising role in the continent’s energy and mining industries.
The development was confirmed in a joint communiqué issued after discussions in Beijing between Xi Jinping and Mozambique’s President Daniel Chapo.
Mozambique’s extensive natural wealth forms the core of the pact, featuring over 5 trillion cubic metres (180 trillion cubic feet) of gas identified in the Rovuma Basin, along with large, largely untapped deposits of strategic minerals in its northern regions.
Another key aspect of the deal involves a major geological exploration programme aimed at locating valuable reserves of graphite, lithium, and rare earth elements materials essential for the global shift toward clean energy.
As part of the arrangement, China will conduct mapping and evaluation of mineral resources in northern Mozambique, an essential step toward developing reserves that have remained mostly unexplored due to insecurity and limited infrastructure, according to the South China Morning Post.
This effort will be carried out through initiatives like the China-Africa Geoscience Cooperation Centre and the Belt and Road International Geoscience Education and Training Centre.
Across Africa, China is advancing an infrastructure-for-resources approach, while the United States is focusing more on securing roles within supply chains for critical minerals used in electric vehicles and advanced technologies.
One example of this strategy is the United States International Development Finance Corporation increasing its investments in Mozambique’s mining sector.
The agency plans to turn a $31 million loan into equity in Syrah Resources, which operates the Balama graphite mine, giving it an estimated 20% ownership stake.
It is also committing an extra $15 million to Twigg Exploration and Mining Limitada, the local firm managing the mine in Cabo Delgado.
Rather than concentrating only on resource extraction, China is presenting a comprehensive model that integrates exploration, infrastructure development, industrial processing, market access, and security collaboration.
Through this deal, China will finance the construction of local processing facilities, enabling Mozambique to move beyond exporting raw materials and begin developing its own industrial capacity.
The agreement also includes expanding agricultural trade through zero-tariff policies and a “green channel,” alongside joint efforts in irrigation systems, transport logistics, and seed technology.
Security remains a major part of the partnership, especially in northern Mozambique, where Cabo Delgado has faced an insurgency since 2017 that has displaced over a million people and disrupted key energy projects.
China has committed to assisting Mozambique’s counterterrorism operations with training, equipment, and joint drills to help stabilise areas vital for gas and mining activities.
These measures are intended to safeguard critical assets as development gradually resumes in affected regions.
Xi Jinping stated that China is ready to “explore new paths for cooperation in infrastructure and comprehensive energy and mineral development,” underscoring its long-term ambitions.
By integrating exploration, security support, financing, and industrial growth, China is positioning itself ahead of Western competitors in gaining access to Mozambique’s gas reserves and key minerals, further strengthening its influence in Africa’s resource landscape.