FRELIMO, the Mozambique Liberation Front, officially began its armed struggle for independence from Portuguese colonial rule on September 25, 1964. The conflict emerged in the context of a growing wave of liberation movements across Africa during the 1960s, where many nations sought to free themselves from colonial powers. Specifically, the attack initiated by FRELIMO involved a series of coordinated guerrilla warfare operations aimed at establishing a foothold in the northern regions of the country. FRELIMO was composed of various factions representing different ethnic groups and ideologies, united in their quest for liberation.The early stages of the insurgency primarily focused on rural areas, gaining traction among local populations disillusioned by Portuguese policies. Portugal, at the time under a dictatorial regime, unflinchingly suppressed dissent and maintained a firm grip on its African colonies. This authoritarian approach further incited the natives to rally behind FRELIMO, which sought popular support through messages of nationalism and self-determination. By launching this military campaign, FRELIMO not only aimed to challenge colonial authority but also hoped to convince international organizations of its legitimacy.In subsequent years, the conflict escalated into a protracted war, drawing in resources and actors from across the region. Neighboring countries such as Tanzania offered support to the liberation movements, while the dynamics of the Cold War influenced international involvement. The struggle became emblematic of a broader anti-colonial sentiment that permeated the continent, transforming Mozambique’s social and political landscape as it moved towards independence in the mid-1970s.