AKF and France launch €6.3 million effort to combat gender‑based violence in Mozambique

AKF and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) have launched a major new initiative to prevent and respond to gender‑based violence (GBV) in Cabo Delgado, Mozambique – a region where years of conflict, displacement and climate shocks have left women and children particularly vulnerable.

The new programme, Protection, Learning and Care against Gender‑Based Violence (PAZ), is funded through AFD’s Minka Peace and Resilience Fund, with additional financial contributions from AKF. Implemented by AKF and its partners in Montepuez – Médicos com África‑CUAMM and the GirlMove Mozambique Association – the €6.3 million, four‑year initiative represents a significant investment in gender equality, protection and inclusive education.

A comprehensive response to a complex environment

Cabo Delgado continues to grapple with the compounded effects of insecurity, poverty, and repeated climate‑related shocks. In this context, PAZ will deliver an integrated, conflict‑sensitive response designed to strengthen systems and communities. The programme will focus on:

• Strengthening GBV prevention systems and survivor-centred response across health, justice and protection services;

• Improving safety and inclusion across 109 schools in the Montepuez district;

• Building the capacity of teachers, school leaders and gender focal points with adapted pedagogy that incorporates safeguarding competencies;

• Mobilising approximately 60 communities to address social norms that hinder girls’ education and promote better learning opportunities for girls;

• Supporting mentorship programmes for young people to strengthen girls’ retention, autonomy and leadership.

The initiative is expected to directly benefit more than 20,000 people, with an estimated 150,000 additional community members reached indirectly through strengthened services, awareness campaigns and social mobilisation.

A shared commitment to resilience and equity

The signing ceremony brought together representatives from the French Embassy, AFD, the Government of Mozambique, consortium partners and stakeholders in integrated community development – underscoring a shared commitment to advancing stability and opportunity in Cabo Delgado.

Through PAZ, AFD and AKF reaffirm their support for national efforts to reduce social inequalities and strengthen the resilience of communities facing protracted crisis.

This programme has been delivered thanks to the generous support of the Agence Française de Développement.