On May 6, 2025, Arnaut Naharipo, regional coordinator of Mozambique’s National Association of Teachers (ANAPRO), accused education authorities of obstructing the association’s lawful activities. According to a report by AIM News, school managers in Nampula province—including in Nacala-a-Velha, Erati, and Angoche—blocked ANAPRO from engaging with teachers, alleging the association was engaged in unauthorized political activity. ANAPRO has been outspoken in advocating for better teaching conditions, including a reduction in class sizes which reportedly exceed 100 pupils per room, and payment for outstanding overtime work. Teachers affiliated with ANAPRO or involved in protests have allegedly been subjected to retaliatory transfers to remote areas.
While provincial officials publicly claim to support teacher organizations, Naharipo reports systematic obstruction on the ground. ANAPRO intends to seek intervention from higher authorities to ensure its operational rights are upheld.
Response
ACAF expresses concern that the reported actions by school managers constitute a significant violation of academic freedom. Preventing teachers from associating freely with a union impedes their ability to advocate for improved conditions, organize collectively, and participate in decisions shaping their professional environment. The use of retaliatory transfers creates a coercive atmosphere that discourages dissent and undermines open dialogue. Mischaracterizing advocacy efforts as political interference further stigmatizes legitimate engagement and silences critical voices. These practices not only restrict the rights of educators but also jeopardize the quality and integrity of the education system. ACAF, therefore, encourages and challenges the Mozambican authorities to respond to these concerns and create an enabling environment for constructive collaboration with the teacher unions.
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