Child-Led Organisations Commit To Deliver The Child Well-Being Promise In Mozambique - Joining Forces Alliance

Mozambique has taken a significant step forward as six major child-focused agencies signed a Memorandum of Understanding to unite efforts in promoting and protecting children across the country, through the Joining Forces for Children Alliance.

“What we’ve just done is more than formalizing a document, it’s the first step in fulfilling a promise made by six of the largest agencies working for child well-being. Our objective is clear: to eradicate violence against children and secure a just future for all,” said Ilaria Manunza, Save the Children National Director.

The platform in Mozambique aims to fuel a shared vision of a country where all children have their rights protected. “We are beginning a bold new chapter in our shared journey on behalf of Mozambican children,” added Manunza.

The group acknowledges that the platform will face significant challenges in protecting children, but remains determined to harness the power of unity to ensure that no child is left behind.

“We are aware that this is not an easy mission, but evidence shows that when we value the experiences and strengths of each organization represented here, the impact is immense. As long as there is one child hungry, sick, abandoned, unhappy, or suffering, we are compelled to rescue them immediately and fully, without any form of political, religious, or ethnic bias,” said Paolo Massa, representing Terre des Hommes.

Accountability in advocating for child well-being is among the top priorities as the organizations come together for a common cause, child rights.

“We will strengthen child protection, promote child-led advocacy, and ensure that vulnerable children are not left behind by holding each other accountable to the communities we serve,” said Harrisson Mateus Ruben, Child Fund Country Director.

World Vision Mozambique praised the signing ceremony, noting that it comes at a time when the country is facing multiple challenges, from climate change and pandemics to conflict and the rising cost of living, all of which demand a united approach.

“As World Vision Mozambique, we have high expectations for this partnership. It did not originate here, it is part of a global alliance that has already shown promising results in other countries, many with contexts similar to ours. This means we have functional models to draw from to create a favorable environment for vulnerable groups, especially children,” said Simione Mhula, World Vision Mozambique Child Protection Manager.