British Project Manager Killed During Terrorist Attack in Mozambique

Philip Mawer, a 58-year-old British project manager, was killed by a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) during a terrorist attack on the Amarula Hotel in Palma, Mozambique, on March 24, 2021. Mawer was working on a gas field construction project when ISIS-linked terrorists attacked the hotel. During an inquest into his death, it was revealed that he insisted on evacuating women and children first. Mawer declined a helicopter evacuation offered the day after the siege began, choosing instead to drive himself in a separate vehicle during a later evacuation attempt. He suffered 'instant unconsciousness and death' when an RPG struck his vehicle. Lars Narfeldt, COO of RA International, the company Mawer worked for, testified that Mawer was under significant stress and fatigue from the siege. Prior to the attack, the terrorist threat in the area was considered low enough for Mawer to continue his work. He had been in Mozambique for ten years and was well-connected in the region. Fellow project manager Gordon Rhattigan noted that there had been weekly attacks reported in the area leading up to the siege, but they believed the presence of the Mozambique military would be sufficient for security. The inquest also highlighted Mawer's character, with colleagues describing him as friendly, well-liked, and respected in the community.