In a move to address water and sanitation challenges in Mozambique, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) launched the country’s five-year High Priority Country Plan, aligning with the U.S. Government Global Water Strategy
During Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman’s visit to Mozambique, the U.S. emphasized its commitment to bolstering safe water, sanitation, and hygiene efforts in the region.
USAID’s substantial investments over the next five years aim to provide water services and basic sanitation to at least 325,000 people, benefitting 90 schools and clinics.
The initiative also focuses on fortifying Mozambique’s water and sanitation institutions, including district water offices, regulators, and service providers. Notably, USAID anticipates mobilizing up to $21 million in private sector funding for water, sanitation, and hygiene sectors.
Highlighting the pressing needs, in 2022, only 63 percent of Mozambicans had access to basic water services, and a mere 38 percent had access to basic sanitation facilities.
The collaborative effort between USAID and the Mozambican government seeks to enhance access to water and sanitation services, build institutional capacity, and promote resilient and sustainable water resource management.
This strategic water initiative symbolizes a new era of cooperation, reflecting the unwavering dedication of the U.S. government to global water security. The broader U.S. assistance in Mozambique, totaling over $812 million annually, underscores the commitment to improving healthcare, education, and fostering economic prosperity and stability in the region.