FBA’s work with Mozambique
Since 2017, northern Mozambique, in Cabo Delgado province, has experienced violent attacks by Islamic State Mozambique, locally known as Ahlu Sunna Wal Jama’a. FBA supports both state actors and civil society in countering the violence and promoting stabilisation, as part of the Swedish government’s strategy for peace, security, and stabilisation in fragile and conflict-affected areas.
Managing the armed group Ahlu Sunna Wal Jama’a
Violence in northern Mozambique has multiple interconnected causes, including poverty, marginalisation, resource exploitation, and violent extremism. Addressing the violence solely through military means is therefore not effective. Instead, a range of coordinated measures is needed to tackle the situation and its root causes.
FBA provides advice and capacity support to state initiatives addressing Ahlu Sunna Wal Jama’a, both at the national level and in the most conflict-affected districts. This includes guidance on handling defectors and reintegrating former fighters into civilian life.
Preventing recruitment and promoting social cohesion
FBA supports conflict-affected districts in mapping and strengthening understanding of how recruitment into violent extremism occurs and how it can be prevented. Through inclusive dialogue and exchanges within and between districts, representatives from the government, police, and civil society can work more effectively to prevent recruitment.
The violence and its negative impact on the population, infrastructure, and economy affect communities in multiple ways and risk exacerbating other tensions and conflicts in the region. FBA works with Christian and Muslim leaders, as well as young people from conflict-affected districts, to prevent conflict and promote social cohesion.