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MOZAMBIQUE - Economy

Helder dos Santos

Managing Director, G4S Mozambique

Bio

Helder dos Santos is Managing Director of G4S Mozambique, and has previously held management positions at EOS Consulting, BANCABC MOÇAMBIQUE, and Barclays Bank Mozambique, PWC, HSBC, and others. He is a graduate of Duke University, the University of Salford in Manchester, the University of South Africa, and the University of Johannesburg.

"The future of Mozambique is positive, despite challenges such as the insurgency."

TBY talks to Helder dos Santos, Managing Director of G4S Mozambique, about unique aspects of this market, security challenges, and the introduction of new technology in this area.

G4S is recognized globally as a leading security company. Can you elaborate on the significance of the Mozambican market within the broader context of G4S’ international operations?

G4S Mozambique is part of the Allied Universal Group, with representation worldwide, particularly after the G4S International takeover. We have been in Mozambique for over 30 years, forming part of a southern African cluster. Besides South Africa, Mozambique is one of the largest markets for G4S in Africa, alongside the DRC and Kenya. We employ nearly 9,000 people, impacting around 45,000 lives when considering the multiplier effect on families. Our presence spans the entire country, operating in every province and most districts.

Given Mozambique’s security landscape, can you provide an analysis of the primary security challenges and how G4S is addressing them?

Security in Mozambique can be analyzed on two levels. The first is the insurgency in the north, which is a specific and ongoing issue requiring unique solutions involving the armed forces. The second level concerns overall security across the country, which is challenged by high unemployment and a young population. With around 50% of the population below 16 years old and unemployment likely above 30%, social stability is hard to achieve. The insurgency impacts the economy by deterring foreign investment, which in turn exacerbates crime due to a lack of employment opportunities. Non-compliance with labor law, health and safety principles and the voluntary principles on safety and human rights (VPSHR) across the industry is a major concern. Despite there being over 600 security companies in Mozambique, less than a handful comply with legislation, such as minimum wage and fair labor practices. The vast majority of security companies overwork and underpay their security officers, leading to issues like forced overtime and lack of social security, amounting to what is essentially slave labor. This is not only stated by ourselves but other bodies including labor unions. This unethical behavior makes it challenging for compliant companies like G4S to compete and it is, therefore, vital for companies, particularly multinationals, with whom we partner to conduct a thorough due diligence to ensure fair labor practices and compliance with the law.

Balancing security challenges with the economic opportunities in Mozambique is crucial. How does G4S navigate this dynamic to create value for its clients?

Mozambique is rich in resources, and many sectors are growing rapidly. This in turn entices companies to be present in Mozambique while at the same time new projects and prospects for growth attract many other companies. In this sense, partnering with the right security company is crucial. We provide value through innovative and integrated security solutions.

G4S is known for its innovative approach to security. What cutting-edge solutions are you introducing to the Mozambican market, and how do they improve security and cost-efficiency?

Our approach to innovation includes integrating technology with traditional security methods. We are investing in AI-driven cameras that monitor driver behavior and remote monitoring systems like drones, which are used in sectors like mining, agriculture, and energy. Drones not only enhance security but also provide opportunities for staff development, such as training drone pilots, thereby uplifting their earning potential. Additionally, we have intelligent safes that streamline cash management, providing liquidity benefits to retail chains by making cash available in their bank accounts immediately.

For companies looking to invest in Mozambique, understanding the security landscape is vital. How does G4S educate and support these companies to ensure their operations remain secure?

Multinationals often recognize the G4S brand, making it easier for us to connect with them. For local companies, we focus on building relationships at the C-suite level, demonstrating how our services can enhance their core business operations. We highlight the benefits of security solutions, such as reducing operational losses through technologies like remote camera monitoring, K9 operations, and drone surveillance amongst many other solutions. Educating companies involves showing them how integrated security solutions can cut costs and improve productivity, thereby allowing them to focus on their core business, which security underpins.

Looking ahead, what is your strategic vision for G4S Mozambique, particularly in light of ongoing regional challenges?

The future of Mozambique is positive, despite challenges such as the insurgency. Addressing these issues with political and fiscal discipline is crucial. TotalEnergies and other multinationals operating in unstable regions can thrive here with the right security partnerships. The solution to insurgency is not solely security-based; it involves winning the hearts and minds of disaffected communities through social upliftment and development projects. G4S focuses heavily on compliance, zero tolerance for fatalities, we hire locally looking after the well-being of our security officers and being part of the community in which we operate. G4S provides end-to-end security solutions, including risk consulting, man-guarding services, cash services, and technology solutions. We aim to ensure that our workforce is safe and well-treated, recognizing their critical role in keeping the economy functioning, especially during challenging times like the pandemic.

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