Mondlane: "youth of Tete deserve more than dust"
Venâncio Mondlane, the presidential candidate for the PODEMOS party, addressed a political rally in the city of Tete, where he critiqued the injustices and challenges afflicting the province’s population. Mondlane underscored Tete’s economic potential, particularly in terms of foreign investment, but criticised the fact that the resources generated in the province are managed from Maputo instead of locally.
Mondlane expressed outrage at the stark contrast between Tete’s natural wealth and the persistent poverty that plagues the local population. According to him, "Tete is being used as a granary, while what’s left for the locals is dust." He highlighted the difficulties faced by young entrepreneurs in the region, who are burdened with heavy taxes when trying to start businesses, while large companies enjoy more favourable tax regimes.
While Mondlane stated that he has no intention of expelling multinational companies operating in the province, he made it clear that his government would renegotiate contracts with these corporations to ensure that the people of Tete benefit more directly from the exploitation of local resources. "We will use the taxes collected to support projects and initiatives of young Mozambicans who want to start businesses and develop their own economy," he affirmed.
Mondlane also denounced the politicisation of provinces and districts, stating that "Tete does not belong to a party, a family, or large corporations." He argued that the province’s resources should benefit the local population and not merely serve the interests of a minority.
The candidate promised governance focused on the sustainable development of all provinces, ensuring that natural resources are managed fairly and transparently, with direct benefits for the Mozambican people.
