Maria Benvinda Delfina Levi, aged 55, was born in the city of Maxixe, in Mozambique’s Inhambane Province. With a degree in Law, she has built a solid career in the country’s judicial and political sectors, holding prominent roles in various public institutions.
Maria Benvinda Levi began her journey in the judiciary system, serving as the Presiding Judge of the Judicial Court of the City of Maputo. Prior to this, she headed the Legal and Judicial Training Centre, contributing to the education and training of magistrates and legal professionals in the country.
Her political rise began on March 11, 2008, when she was appointed Minister of Justice by then-President Armando Guebuza, succeeding Esperança Machavela. During her tenure, she stood out for addressing challenges related to combating torture and improving the treatment of detainees in Mozambican prisons. In 2012, Levi acknowledged progress within the prison system but admitted that practices of torture by security forces persisted despite ongoing training initiatives.
Levi served as Minister of Justice until 2015, when she was appointed Legal Adviser to then-President Filipe Nyusi. In this capacity, she participated in significant processes, such as the 2016 peace negotiations between the Government and Renamo, where she was part of the government delegation alongside figures like Jacinto Veloso and Alves Muteque.
On January 29, 2020, Levi was appointed a member of the Higher Council of the Judiciary by President Nyusi, reaffirming her importance in the legal sphere.
On January 17, 2025, Maria Benvinda Levi was appointed as Mozambique’s Prime Minister by President Daniel Chapo, becoming the second woman to hold this position after Luísa Diogo. Her appointment reflects her extensive experience and significant contributions to both the judiciary and executive powers.
Throughout her career, Maria Benvinda Levi has established herself as a prominent figure in Mozambique’s political and legal landscape. Her leadership in the highest offices of government and the judiciary highlights her commitment to strengthening state institutions and advancing the country’s development.
