Doubts linger in the Rovuma

Mozambique offshore gas could transform its economy. But plans to use it domestically or build a lucrative export business have hit a number of problems

With an estimated 180 trillion cubic feet (cf) of natural gas lying in the Rovuma basin offshore its northern coast, Mozambique believes it is on the cusp of economic transformation. Last year, the metical lost half its value against the dollar, consumer inflation soared and analysts predicted rioters would take to the street. But this year, the money is supposed to start pouring in as investors start to develop the gas trove.  Whether or not that happens though, is debatable. The accusations thrust at the government in recent times include widespread corruption, and more recently atrocities that have led to an estimated 6,000 villagers in the country’s north fleeing to Malawi. That, coupled