The mandatory conscription law was passed in 1978 during the Mozambican Civil War (1977–1992) in order to have a stronger governmental military force at the time.
Defence Minister Cristóvão Chume claimed this step was necessary, as the military "needed to be modern and more professional to be able to face challenges against national security and sovereignty.
Citizens can be exempt from mandatory military service, if they have health issues, studies or career or government needs.
[3][4] Mozambique doesn't allow soldiers under the age of 18 years old to enlist; it is one of the parties to the multilateral treaty of Optional Protocol on the Involvement of Children in Armed Conflict.
[5] This number has increased a lot in recent years: The Mozambican Defense Ministry announced plans to recruit 221,141 individuals aged 18 to 35 for military service in 2024.
[8][9] This right may temporarily be suspended or restricted in the event of a declaration of a state of war, siege, or emergency, in accordance with the terms of the constitution.