Joaquim Chissano on mediation and meditation in Mozambique

The Mediator's Studio

Former President of Mozambique Joaquim Chissano charts his journey from freedom fighter to head of state. He discusses his role in securing Mozambique’s independence from colonial rule and reveals why he did not want to become president after his predecessor’s sudden death in 1986. As a peacemaker, he reflects on how he convinced the Mozambican people to reconcile with former RENAMO fighters after the country’s civil war. He also shares why he introduced transcendental meditation to the military and what it’s like to be friends with Nelson Mandela.