Mozambique: US intends to support Cabo Delgado with extra $22 million

The US Government intends to make available US$22 million (€20.3 million) in new funds this year to support “stabilisation efforts” in Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, the US Embassy in Maputo said .

In a statement on the conclusion of a visit from March 17 to 21 to Mozambique by the Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations, Anne A. Witkowsky, notes that the provision of these funds still depends on approval in Congress.

“With this investment, the United States will have dedicated nearly $100 million in stability-focused assistance to northern Mozambique since 2022. This funding builds upon the broader development and humanitarian assistance provided by the United States throughout the country,” the statement reads.

“Mozambique’s progress toward sustainable peace is essential for the economic prosperity of all Mozambicans and for the security of the region,” said Deputy Secretary Witkowsky, quoted in the same statement.

“The United States is committed to supporting Mozambican partners to advance an integrated effort for peace and stability across Cabo Delgado and surrounding provinces – emphasizing civilian protection, access to justice, inclusive economic development, and transparent, democratic governance,” she added.

During her visit to Mozambique, the Assistant Secretary met with the Minister of Justice, Helena Kida, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Manuel José Gonçalves, civil society leaders, journalists, representatives of the private sector, non-governmental organisations and other diplomatic partners “working for peace in northern Mozambique”.

The United States says that, in collaboration with local partners, it is mobilising diplomatic support, development assistance, and security sector engagement “to prevent violence, promote stability, and build resilience through locally led solutions in Cabo Delgado and neighbouring provinces”.

It adds that ongoing U.S. programs are providing training for local government officials to deliver services, supporting community radio, promoting social cohesion through peace clubs, sports, and the arts, and increasing educational and employment opportunities for youth, including through construction of the new secondary school in Pemba, capital of Cabo Delgado province.

The province of Cabo Delgado has been facing an armed insurgency for six years, with some attacks claimed by the extremist Islamic State group. After a period of relative calm in 2023, these attacks have multiplied this year, displacing around 100,000 people in February alone, and leaving a trail of destruction, death and scattered families.