PRESS RELEASE
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Mozambique and United States Partner to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability
April 1, 2022 – Today, the U.S. government announced Mozambique’s selection as a priority country for the U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability. This Strategy outlines cooperation with the Mozambican government and civil society at the national and local levels to invest in a long-term, locally led approach to address the causes of conflict and strengthen the foundation of stability.
The United States and Mozambique have a shared interest in achieving stability in Cabo Delgado and neighboring provinces. Since 2017, terrorists have perpetuated brutal violence in northern Mozambique, causing thousands of deaths, displacing nearly 800,000 people from their homes, and destroying neighborhoods and essential infrastructure. In addition to security assistance, long-term investments in conflict prevention are needed to secure sustainable peace.
The U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability offers additional resources to promote stability and strengthen the resilience of Mozambican communities affected by violent extremism and terrorism. By working with the Mozambican government, civil society, the private sector, and regional and international partners, the United States will coordinate its development, diplomatic, and security-sector assistance through a ten-year plan that includes conflict prevention and stabilization programs to support democratic governance, transparency, and inclusive development.
“The United States is committed to helping our partners in Mozambique prevent violence, promote stability, and build resilience,” said U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Abigail Dressel. “Additionally, respect for human rights and the rule of law are paramount to effectively counter terrorism, as the absence of such principles can further fuel violent extremism,” she said.
In the development of this ten-year plan, the U.S. government’s highest priority will be support for local partners, both governmental and non-governmental, who are developing and implementing solutions to the most pressing challenges of this crisis. This means consulting with local counterparts and incorporating the expertise of U.S. stakeholders specializing in these areas.
Mozambique is one of five priority locations selected for this U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability. In close collaboration with the Government of the Republic of Mozambique, the U.S. government provides more than $500 million in annual assistance to help Mozambique build a healthier, more secure, more democratic, and more prosperous country for all citizens.
