UN Women Launches Project to Support Women and Girls in Northern Mozambique Amid Conflict

Marie Laetitia Kayisire, UN Women Representative in Mozambique, emphasized the project's focus on maintaining gender equality commitments within humanitarian efforts.

In an effort to bolster the socio-economic recovery and resilience of internally displaced and repatriated women and girls in Northern Mozambique, UN Women has inaugurated a new project in partnership with the Northern Integrated Development Agency (ADIN) and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).

The launch ceremony, held in Cabo Delgado province, saw H.E. António Njanje Taímo Supeia, Secretary of State for Cabo Delgado, preside over the event and deliver the opening address. During the ceremony, equipment valued at approximately nine million meticais was officially handed over by UN Women to the Department for Assistance to Families and Minors Victims of Violence, aimed at strengthening institutional capacities for the protection of women and girls.

Marie Laetitia Kayisire, UN Women Representative in Mozambique, emphasized the project's focus on maintaining gender equality commitments within humanitarian efforts. She outlined key components including psychosocial support, livelihood assistance, technical-vocational training, financial literacy, and business management for women and girls affected by conflict.

Funded by KOICA with a budget of USD 6 million, the project aims to empower 93,400 women and girls affected by the prolonged conflicts and terrorist activities in Cabo Delgado's districts of Palma, Mocímboa da Praia, Nangade, Muidumbe, Macomia, and Quissanga. These activities are pivotal in ensuring that displaced and returnee populations lead and benefit from humanitarian aid and reconstruction initiatives.

Jacinto Lapido Loureiro, President of ADIN, highlighted the indispensable role of women in societal progress and family welfare, stressing the need for economic and social empowerment in Northern Mozambique's development.

Key figures present at the event included Gyeong-jin Noh, Deputy Director of KOICA – Mozambique; Nelson Pereira, Director of Transport and Communication representing the Governor of Cabo Delgado Province; Kiliriana Alberto Mbule, Director of the Provincial Directorate of Gender, Child, and Social Action; as well as local administrators and civil society representatives.

The collaboration between UN Women and KOICA underscores their commitment to promoting gender-sensitive humanitarian actions and supporting the reconstruction efforts in Cabo Delgado. This initiative marks a significant stride towards addressing the challenges faced by women and girls affected by conflict, aiming to foster resilience and sustainable development in the region.