On October 24th, we celebrate United Nations Day. The Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) has played a crucial role by collaborating with various United Nations agencies and funds in Mozambique, significantly contributing to the advancement of sustainable development in the country and supporting the achievement of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
In partnership with the United Nations, AICS has played a fundamental role in various areas. In particular, it has provided humanitarian assistance to people displaced due to the conflict in Cabo Delgado, supported peace consolidation efforts in Mozambique, assisted small farmers in promoting and marketing coffee, contributed to the sustainable management of the Quirimbas National Park, strengthened the healthcare system, and supported the country in building resilience against cyclones and floods.
In the agriculture sector, AICS in Maputo has supported the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MADER) in the areas of food security, agriculture, and rural development. The geographic focus of interventions is primarily in the Beira Corridor, where AICS collaborates not only with local authorities but also with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Soon, they will also collaborate with the World Food Programme (WFP) with the aim of promoting the integrated development of the horticultural sector and guiding the development of the coffee sector in the Beira Corridor, connecting Mozambique to Zimbabwe.
In the field of environment and energy access, AICS in Maputo is involved in the resilient reconstruction of the districts of Ibo and Buzi, which were affected by Cyclones Kenneth and Idai. They finance the “Multidimensional Resilient Recovery of the Ibo and Buzi Districts” project, implemented by a consortium led by UN-Habitat in partnership with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the International Labour Organization (ILO). The project promotes an integrated and sustainable approach aimed at conserving natural resources, protecting local heritage, and empowering local communities to withstand the impacts of extreme weather events. In collaboration with UNESCO, AICS has contributed to ensuring the sustainability of the Quirimbas Biosphere Reserve by developing a Business Management Plan 2023-2032, promoting biodiversity conservation and sustainable business opportunities.
In Cabo Delgado, AICS has collaborated with the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) and the World Food Programme (WFP) in providing humanitarian assistance to displaced people due to the conflict. This includes offering essential services in the water and sanitation, nutrition sectors, and engaging communities to promote behavior changes related to health, nutrition, hygiene, and sanitation.
Together with the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), AICS is involved in carrying out activities of the DELPAZ program – Local Development for Peace Consolidation in Mozambique, funded by the European Union, in 14 districts most affected by political-military conflict in the provinces of Tete, Manica, and Sofala. This program focuses on the most vulnerable groups, including beneficiaries of the Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) process and their families. Promoting more inclusive governance and equitable and sustainable local economic development are key components of the intervention, crucial for the socio-economic stability of rural communities.
In the health sector, in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and other donors, Italy funds the PROSAÚDE Common Fund, one of its main objectives being to reduce geographical inequalities in access to healthcare services by supporting the decentralization process in the country.
On the 78th anniversary of the entry into force of the United Nations Charter, AICS remains committed to collaborating with the United Nations to ensure the sustainable development of Mozambique, ensuring that no one is left behind.
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