Mozambique was regarded as a success story in political reform but due to recently reopened political-military conflict the perspective is not as bright as it has been in recent years. Despite significant progress in the education sector and health care, Mozambique continues to be one of the poorest countries in the world, with over half of the population living in absolute poverty, particularly in rural areas. Austria supports Mozambique in poverty reduction at national level, and in the focal province Sofala. Priority is attached to inclusive agriculture in order to increase food security and rural water supply and sanitation. Mozambique has been a priority country of the Austrian Development Cooperation since 1992. Cooperation is coordinated via the country office of the Austrian Development Agency in the capital, Maputo.
SECURING FOOD AND GENERATING INCOME
Austria has already supported the Mozambican agriculture sector with sectoral finance since 2005. Its funds to the budget of the Ministry of Agriculture contribute to a sustainable and inclusive development in particularly disadvantaged regions. Smallholder farmers in Sofala are familiarised with sustainable farming methods and new technologies. Particular support is given to women and to promoting their economic self-reliance as farmers. Through close cooperation with the social insurance institute in Sofala, government assistance to the poor is being complemented with specific agricultural support.
Water is LIFE - and a human right
ADA also supports the installation and extension of drinking water and sanitation facilities in rural areas of Mozambique. In cooperation with other donors, Austria supports the national rural water supply and sanitation program PRONASAR.