Abstract
The conflict in the Cabo Delgado province in Mozambique has greatly shaped the security thrust in Mozambique and the entire Southern African region. The country was plunged into chaos after the insurgent group, Al Shabaab launched attacks in the Mocimboa area and subsequently in other parts, resulting in the displacement andkilling of people. Despite the deployment of the military, the conflict has persisted, which suggests that there are underlying factors to the conflict. The purpose of this study is to interrogate the core issues responsible for the conflict. However, to understand the variables responsible for the conflict, the study is informed by the conflict theory of greed versus grievance. This study argues that ethnic marginalisationis the core trigger in the Cabo Delgado conflict, The study also found that the province is also a breeding place for radicalism, characterised by extreme poverty and high unemployment rates. The study employed the qualitative research methodology, using secondary data such as textbooks, periodicals, and journals.The study concluded that a comprehensive strategy of inclusivity of all stakeholders is required to address the conflict in Mozambique.