New AIMO Governing Bodies Take Office

·       Announce strategic vision for the 2025-2030 mandate

The official inauguration ceremony of the new governing bodies of the Industrial Association of Mozambique (AIMO), elected for the 2025-2030 term, was recently held in Maputo, at one of Maputo's hotels. The event, attended by distinguished national and international figures, marked a moment of renewal and reaffirmation of the country's commitment to industrial development.

The ceremony began with a speech by Carlos Simbine, President of the AIMO General Assembly, followed by Rogério Samogudo, the former president of the organization, reading the inauguration minutes. The highlight of the event was the signing of the inauguration instrument, which formalized the leadership transition, with Paulo Chibanga assuming the position of president of AIMO, replacing Rogério Samogudo.

Paulo Chibanga, representing Enserve—the first and largest private pump and valve company in Mozambique—assumes leadership of AIMO with the aim of bringing a multidisciplinary and innovative vision to the industrial sector. In his speech, the new president emphasized the honor and responsibility he assumes, outlining five main commitments: institutional strengthening of AIMO, active defense of industry interests, financial sustainability, fostering entrepreneurship and employment, and knowledge production through a future Industry Observatory.

During his speech, Chibanga also announced two strategic partnerships: a Memorandum of Understanding with UNIDO, which aims to strengthen institutional capacity and promote sustainable industrial solutions; and an agreement with Limak Construction Southern Africa, under the GEG – Girls Empowerment through Engineering project, which will promote the training of girls in engineering and STEM.

The ceremony also featured a speech by the Secretary of State for Industry, Dr. Custódia Paunde, who highlighted "the central role of industry in the structural transformation of the Mozambican economy. According to data, the industrial sector has represented, on average, 8% of GDP over the last 10 years, ranking as the fourth-largest contributor to national production."

During her speech, the minister challenged the new AIMO board "to deepen sectoral specialization, encouraging the formation of industrial associations by sector, focusing on the priority industries defined in the Industrial Strategic Plan." She also highlighted "the need to expand the sector's presence in areas such as agriculture, mining, fisheries, tourism, construction, energy, transportation, and the environment."

After the inauguration, two cooperation agreements were formalized between AIMO and UNIDO, focusing on inclusive and sustainable industrialization, renewable energy, and technical innovation. AIMO and Limak Cimentos, aimed at training women in engineering, job market integration, and promoting gender equality in the production sector.

The event concluded with a call for business unity and cooperation between the public and private sectors, as well as international partners, aiming for a more robust, inclusive, and future-oriented Mozambican industry.