The Mozambique LNG project, spearheaded by TotalEnergies with an investment of around US$20 billion, is poised to restart after being halted in March 2021 due to escalating violence from insurgents linked to the Islamic State in Cabo Delgado province. The project's resumption is viewed as a vital opportunity to leverage Mozambique's natural gas reserves for broader economic development, particularly benefiting the impoverished local population. However, the ongoing security threats from terrorism pose a significant risk to the stability and success of such a major investment.

In addition to security concerns, there are worries about the management of the revenues once the natural gas extraction begins. The history of governance in Mozambique raises red flags regarding transparency and accountability in the use of public assets, especially in a region that has been marred by economic hardship. If gas revenues are not managed effectively, the benefits that are expected to flow from the project could be undermined, turning what should be a boon for the community into a possible long-term burden instead.

To mitigate these risks, experts emphasize the importance of improving security measures not only at the project site but also in surrounding areas. Enhanced vigilance and proactive strategies are essential to protect investments and ensure that the local population feels safe. Ultimately, the balance between maximizing economic opportunities from the LNG project and addressing security and governance issues will determine whether Mozambique can successfully capitalize on its natural wealth or face further challenges in the future.