UNIVERSIDADE PÚNGUÈ

EXTENSÃO DE TETE
FACULDADE DE LETRAS, CIÊNCIAS SOCIAIS E HUMANIDADE

Title: Poverty and Suffering in Mozambique: A Comparison to George Orwell's

"Animal Farm"

Curso de Licenciatura em Ensino de Inglês

Literatura em Lingua Inglesa

Josef Banda

Tete
April, 2024

Josef Banda
0

Literatura em Lingua Inglesa

Abstract:

This research paper delves into the pervasive issue of poverty and suffering in
Mozambique, drawing parallels to George Orwell's classic novel "Animal Farm." The
paper explores the historical context of Mozambique, the current challenges faced by its
population, proposed solutions, as well as the impact of governance, corruption, and
economic development on poverty. By examining these aspects, this paper aims to shed
light on the deep-rooted issues that contribute to the cycle of poverty and suffering in
Mozambique. The comparison to "Animal Farm" will provide a critical lens through
which to analyze power dynamics, inequality, and exploitation in both contexts

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Índice
1.Introduction:..........................................................................................................................4
2. Development........................................................................................................................5
2.1. Historical Context of Mozambique:..................................................................................5
2.2. Current Challenges:...........................................................................................................6
2.3. Proposed Solutions:...........................................................................................................7
2.4. Background:......................................................................................................................8
2.5. Analysis:............................................................................................................................8
2.6. The Impact of Governance, Corruption, and Economic Development..............................9
2.7. Comparison to "Animal Farm":.......................................................................................10
3. Conclusion:........................................................................................................................11
Sources:..................................................................................................................................12

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1.Introduction:
Africa, despite its rich natural resources and potential for economic growth, has been
plagued by poverty and suffering for years. Mozambique, in particular, has been
struggling with these issues despite numerous regime changes over the last half century.
This research paper aims to explore the reasons behind the prevalence of poverty and
suffering in Mozambique, drawing parallels to George Orwell's novel "Animal Farm."
In addition, the paper will propose solutions to change this dire situation.

Mozambique, a country in southeastern Africa, has a long history of colonization,

conflict, and poverty. Despite being rich in natural resources, the majority of its
population lives in poverty and suffers from lack of access to basic services such as
healthcare, education, and clean water. The legacy of colonization, followed by years of
civil war and economic instability, has left Mozambique grappling with a myriad of
challenges that perpetuate the cycle of poverty and suffering.

George Orwell's "Animal Farm," a satirical allegory that critiques the Russian
Revolution and totalitarianism, provides a compelling framework for understanding the
dynamics of power, inequality, and exploitation. Through the lens of "Animal Farm,"
we can draw parallels to the situation in Mozambique and examine how issues such as
corruption, governance, and economic development contribute to the perpetuation of
poverty and suffering.

In this research paper, we will explore the historical context of Mozambique, the current
challenges faced by its population, proposed solutions to alleviate poverty, and the
impact of governance, corruption, and economic development on poverty. By
examining these aspects in parallel with the themes in "Animal Farm," we aim to
provide a comprehensive analysis of the root causes of poverty and suffering in
Mozambique.

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2. Development

2.1. Historical Context of Mozambique:

Mozambique, as a former Portuguese colony, gained independence in 1975 after a long
struggle against colonial rule. However, the post-independence period was marked by a
devastating civil war that lasted until 1992, leaving the country in ruins and deepening
the cycle of poverty and suffering among its population. The legacy of colonization and
war has had profound effects on the socio-economic development of Mozambique,
shaping its current challenges and exacerbating issues such as inequality, corruption,
and lack of basic services.

The exploitation of Mozambique's natural resources, including coal, gas, and minerals,
by foreign companies has further compounded the country's economic woes. Despite
being rich in resources, the benefits of these industries have not trickled down to the
majority of the population, leading to widespread poverty and suffering. The lack of
effective governance, transparency, and accountability in the management of natural
resources has enabled corruption to thrive, perpetuating inequality and preventing
meaningful development in Mozambique.

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2.2. Current Challenges:
Mozambique faces a myriad of challenges that contribute to the cycle of poverty and
suffering among its population. One of the most pressing issues is access to basic
services such as healthcare, education, and clean water. The majority of Mozambicans
lack access to quality healthcare facilities and education, leading to high rates of infant
mortality, illiteracy, and preventable diseases.

Furthermore, the impact of climate change, including frequent cyclones and droughts,
has exacerbated food insecurity and poverty in Mozambique. The country's agricultural
sector, which employs a large portion of the population, is highly vulnerable to climate
shocks, leading to decreased crop yields and livelihoods. In addition, the prevalence of
HIV/AIDS, malaria, and other diseases further strains the healthcare system and
hampers economic development in Mozambique.

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2.3. Proposed Solutions:
Addressing the root causes of poverty and suffering in Mozambique requires a multi-
faceted approach that involves addressing issues such as governance, corruption, and
economic development. In order to break the cycle of poverty, it is essential to promote
transparency, accountability, and good governance in the management of natural
resources and public funds. This includes strengthening institutions, enhancing legal
frameworks, and fostering civic engagement to hold policymakers and leaders
accountable for their actions.

Investing in social services such as healthcare and education is crucial to improving the
well-being of Mozambique's population and breaking the cycle of poverty. By
increasing access to quality healthcare facilities, ensuring equitable education for all
children, and promoting gender equality, Mozambique can empower its citizens and
build a more inclusive and resilient society. Furthermore, investing in sustainable
agriculture, renewable energy, and infrastructure development can create jobs, boost
economic growth, and reduce poverty in Mozambique.

To address the root causes of poverty and suffering in Mozambique, several steps can
be taken. First and foremost, there needs to be a concerted effort to combat corruption
and improve governance. Transparent and accountable leadership is crucial in ensuring
that resources are utilized for the benefit of the people.

Investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure are also essential to uplift the
population and create opportunities for economic growth. Strengthening social safety
nets, promoting sustainable agriculture, and supporting small businesses can further
alleviate poverty and improve the quality of life for Mozambicans.

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2.4. Background:
Mozambique gained independence from Portuguese colonial rule in 1975, followed by a
civil war that lasted until 1992. Since then, the country has experienced several regime
changes, yet poverty and suffering continue to plague the nation. The legacy of
colonialism, corruption, mismanagement of resources, and political instability have all
contributed to the current state of affairs in Mozambique.

2.5. Analysis:
In "Animal Farm," Orwell uses allegory to depict the rise of a totalitarian regime that
oppresses the working class, leading to poverty and suffering for the masses. Similarly,
in Mozambique, political leaders have exploited the country's resources for personal
gain, leaving the majority of the population living in poverty.

The lack of infrastructure, education, healthcare, and employment opportunities further

exacerbate the situation, leading to widespread poverty and suffering. The effects of
climate change, natural disasters, and conflicts also add to the challenges faced by the
people of Mozambique.

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2.6. The Impact of Governance, Corruption, and Economic Development:

Governance, corruption, and economic development play a crucial role in perpetuating

poverty and suffering in Mozambique. The lack of effective governance and
accountability has enabled corruption to thrive, diverting public funds away from
essential services and infrastructure projects. This has eroded trust in government
institutions, stifled economic growth, and deepened inequality in Mozambique.

Furthermore, the exploitation of natural resources by foreign companies has often led to
environmental degradation, displacement of communities, and unequal distribution of
benefits. The lack of transparency and accountability in the extractive industries has
enabled corruption to flourish, contributing to the cycle of poverty and suffering in
Mozambique. In order to break this cycle, it is essential to promote sustainable and
equitable development that benefits all Mozambicans, not just a privileged few.

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2.7. Comparison to "Animal Farm":
In George Orwell's "Animal Farm," the animals on Manor Farm rebel against their
human oppressors and establish a socialist utopia where all animals are equal. However,
as the pigs, who represent the ruling elite, seize power and manipulate the other animals
for their own gain, the farm descends into tyranny and exploitation. The allegory of
"Animal Farm" critiques the corruption of power, the perversion of ideals, and the
betrayal of the oppressed by those in positions of authority.

In Mozambique, the parallels to "Animal Farm" are evident in the dynamics of power,
inequality, and exploitation that perpetuate poverty and suffering among its population.
The ruling elite, who have access to resources and opportunities, often manipulate the
system for their own gain, while the majority of Mozambicans struggle to make ends
meet. The lack of transparency, accountability, and effective governance enables
corruption to thrive, perpetuating the cycle of poverty and suffering in Mozambique.

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3. Conclusion:
In conclusion, poverty and suffering in Mozambique persist despite regime changes due
to a combination of historical factors, poor governance, and lack of economic
development. By drawing parallels to "Animal Farm," we can better understand the
dynamics at play and propose solutions to address these challenges. It is imperative that
policymakers, civil society, and the international community work together to
implement sustainable development strategies that will bring about positive change for
the people of Mozambique.

Poverty and suffering in Mozambique are deeply entrenched issues that require a
holistic and sustainable approach to address. By examining the historical context,
current challenges, proposed solutions, and the impact of governance, corruption, and
economic development on poverty, we can gain a better understanding of the root
causes of these issues and explore ways to break the cycle of poverty and suffering in
Mozambique. Drawing parallels to George Orwell's "Animal Farm" provides a critical
lens through which to analyze power dynamics, inequality, and exploitation in both
contexts, shedding light on the urgent need for structural change and social justice in
Mozambique. Through concerted efforts to promote good governance, invest in social
services, and foster sustainable development, Mozambique can build a more equitable
and prosperous society for all its citizens.

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Sources:
1. Orwell, George. (1946) Animal Farm. New York: Harcourt Brace & Company.
2. United Nations Development Programme. (2019) Mozambique: A Human
Development Perspective. New York: UNDP.
3. World Bank Group. (2020) Mozambique Economic Update. Washington, D.C.:
World Bank.

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