The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS)
Statement on the ongoing crisis in northern Mozambique
Statement by UN Under-Secretary-General and UNOPS Executive Director Jorge Moreira da Silva.
For over seven years now, communities in northern Mozambique, in Cabo Delgado, have been impacted by violence that has killed thousands and displaced over a million people. A conflict that has left them with a daily struggle to find food, security and shelter. Mozambique’s vulnerability to climate disasters - despite the country’s low emissions - has only compounded these challenges.
I have just concluded a four-day visit to the region, where I had an opportunity to focus on the support received by communities affected by the conflict, and understand the pressing needs that remain.
The humanitarian outlook is dire; In 2024, 1.7 million people in Mozambique will need life-saving and life-sustaining humanitarian assistance and protection, including 1.3 million people in conflict-affected areas. As our world grapples with multiple unprecedented crises, the conflict in northern Mozambique must remain in our minds.
UNOPS operations with the government and the World Bank are helping to address response and recovery needs. This work includes improving basic infrastructure, supporting sustainable livelihoods, increasing access to public services and encouraging social cohesion. And it will benefit over 680,000 people across 13 districts in Cabo Delgado.
The results so far are tangible. However, much remains to be done, and the situation for communities in this part of the world remains incredibly difficult.
Despite many challenges, I have been so impressed with the resilience and the determination of the people to forge a peaceful and prosperous path. And I was pleased to meet with national partners at all levels to discuss how UNOPS can provide further support.
The path to sustainable and inclusive development in Mozambique requires peace and stability.
The international community needs to renew its commitment to support national and local efforts to find practical solutions for communities affected by conflict and climate vulnerability in Mozambique.
I call on all parties to support United Nations efforts for the people of northern Mozambique.
