Mobilisation of support for Mozambique and its people

Subject: Mobilisation of support for Mozambique and its people

Given the criminal activities of mercenary terrorist groups fighting Mozambique with foreign support, which have been active in the north-east of the country and particularly in the province of Cabo Delgado, the Mozambican authorities have been working to guarantee the people’s safety and needs and to protect the peace, sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of the country.

These criminal activities, which hamper any kind of progress and open the country to outside interference, as well as a neo-colonial stance that disrespects Mozambique’s sovereignty and independence, have highlighted the need for increased solidarity with Mozambique, including for internally displaced persons, particularly as regards urgent humanitarian aid and development cooperation.

In the light of the above, what type of support has the Commission already provided or does it intend to provide to Mozambique, in liaison with the Mozambican authorities and in respect for the country’s sovereignty, in order to help those most directly affected by these criminal activities?

Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Borrell on behalf of the European Commission (17 August 2021)

Following Mozambique’s request for support, the EU prepared in agreement with its Member States an integrated response to the crisis in Cabo Delgado, encompassing humanitarian, development, peace building, security and political actions.

In 2021, the EU has mobilised EUR 15 million to assist internally displaced populations and host communities in Cabo Delgado and neighbouring provinces, through provision of food, water and sanitation, access to health, education, nutrition services and support to victims of violence. Moreover, EU Humanitarian Air Bridge consisting of three flights in early July 2021 delivered medical equipment and humanitarian cargo.

Two EU projects (1) worth EUR 5 million promote peace and stabilisation in Cabo Delgado and neighbouring provinces. They are implemented by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and Comunità di Sant‘Egidio.

EU Member States have decided to establish a new non-executive military Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) mission. Its objective is to support the capacity building of selected units of Mozambican Armed Forces to develop the necessary and sustainable capacities to restore safety and security in Cabo Delgado in full compliance with Human Rights, the Rule of Law and International Humanitarian Law.

Without prejudice to decisions on future financial support to Mozambique under the next Multiannual Financial Framework, addressing the root causes of the violence in the Central and Northern provinces of Mozambique will remain a priority for the EU, focusing on youth, education, job creation and climate change, as well as governance, peace and stability. The EU is also working with the United Nations, World Bank and African Development Bank to carry out a Recovery and Peacebuilding Assessment for Northern Mozambique.

⋅1∙ Projects under Financing decision C(2020) 8674 final 8.12.2020. | | ( | | )