VOICED: Mozambique's huge coal reserves a mixed blessing

In northeastern Mozambique, hauliers face significant delays due to the limited capacity of the Zambezi bridge. The region is experiencing an influx of trucks due to its vast coal reserves, estimated at 23 billion tons. These reserves, comparable to those in South Africa and Australia, have attracted global interest, particularly from China and India. Mining operations are set to begin, but infrastructure challenges, such as a precarious bridge and limited transport routes, pose significant hurdles. A railway line is being reopened, but further infrastructure development is needed to facilitate coal export.

What is the main reason for the increased number of trucks in northeastern Mozambique?

• Discovery of coal reserves

• Agricultural expansion

• New highway construction

• Tourism boom

How do Mozambique's coal reserves compare to those of South Africa and Australia?

• They are twice as large

• They are not yet discovered

• They are almost as large

• They are significantly smaller

Which countries are particularly interested in Mozambique's coal reserves?

• USA and Canada

• Brazil and Argentina

• China and India

• Russia and Japan

What is a major challenge for transporting coal from the mines in Mozambique?

• Lack of skilled labor

• High export taxes

• Unfavorable weather conditions

• Precarious bridge and limited roads

What infrastructure development is needed to facilitate coal export from Mozambique?

• Improved telecommunications

• New airports

• New railway lines and port terminals

• More hotels