Donors suspend aid to Mozambique

Donor nations and institutions that contribute to Mozambique’s state budget have suspended their support over revelations of $1,4 billion in hidden debt, officials said on Wednesday.

Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, representing the donors, announced the move at a press conference in Maputo alongside Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi.

De Sousa said it was a “temporary suspension” and not a “final judgement” on the direct contribution to the state budget, estimated at $265m this year.

The donor group has 14 members including France, Britain, Canada, the European Union and the African Development Bank.