Child Soldiers in Mozambique Participate in Raid on Northern Town

An armed group linked to the Islamic State (ISIS) in northern Mozambique has been accused of using boys as young as 13 in a recent attack on the town of Macomia, in Cabo Delgado province. Human Rights Watch reported that the group, known locally as Al-Shabab, raided the town on May 10, 2024, looting shops and engaging in heavy fighting with government forces.

Witnesses, including relatives of the boys involved, stated that they saw children as young as 13 carrying ammunition belts and assault rifles during the raid. The use of children under the age of 15 as child soldiers is considered a war crime.

President Filipe Nyusi confirmed the attack, which resulted in over 700 people fleeing the fighting that lasted for two days. The International Organization for Migration reported that at least 10 people, mostly soldiers, were killed in the conflict.

One witness, a 22-year-old trader named Abu Rachide, recounted seeing his 13-year-old nephew among the fighters, carrying a gun and ammunition belt. Despite calling out to his nephew, the boy continued on his mission, leaving his family shocked and concerned.

Al-Shabab fighters occupied Macomia for over 24 hours before moving towards Mucojo, looting food from shops and warehouses in the area. Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors without Borders) suspended their activities in Macomia following the violence.

The use of child soldiers by Al-Shabab in Mozambique has been an ongoing issue, with Human Rights Watch previously reporting on the group’s recruitment of boys for combat. International laws prohibit the use of children under 18 in armed conflict, categorizing it as a war crime.

Human Rights Watch has called for increased efforts from Mozambican authorities, armed groups, and international partners to protect children from being recruited into armed conflicts and ensure their safety at home and in school.