In Cabo Delgado protection, education and nutrition for thousands of children

In Cabo Delgado, northern Mozambique, thousands of children and families continue to recover from the impact of armed conflict, displacement and disrupted access to essential services.

Years of insecurity have affected education, child protection systems, health care and nutrition, leaving children among the most vulnerable.

To respond to these urgent needs, the CUIDA project – Strengthening the protective environment for vulnerable children in Cabo Delgado Province – was implemented by AVSI in Mozambique from 2023 to 2025, with the support from UNICEF Mozambiqueand funding of Canada in Mozambique, Angola and Eswatini, Royal Norwegian Embassy in Maputo and the Embassy of the Netherlands in Mozambique, in the districts of Pemba, Ancuabe and Ibo.Through an integrated and child-centred approach, the project reached 4,300 children directly, combining interventions in Education, Child Protection, and Health & Nutrition.

For many children affected by conflict and displacement, safety and emotional wellbeing are the first step toward recovery.

CUIDA worked with families, caregivers and communities to strengthen local protection systems, identify vulnerable children and promote safer environments where children could grow and learn again.

Community engagement was central to the project’s success. Local leaders, volunteers and families played an active role in restoring trust, supporting children at risk and ensuring that no child was left behind.

Conflict and displacement often interrupt schooling for months or even years. Through CUIDA, children were supported to return to learning environments where they could feel safe, regain routine and continue their education. Teachers, facilitators and communities were mobilised to help children reconnect with learning and rebuild confidence in the future.

The project also addressed health and nutrition needs, recognising that children cannot learn or thrive when basic wellbeing is at risk. Families received support to improve child care practices, nutrition awareness and access to services essential for healthy development.

As the project comes to an end, its impact continues through the lives it touched. The testimonies of Bachir João (in education component) and Aburai Momade (Nutrition), residents of Matemo, reflect the resilience of communities and the value of collective action to protect children in difficult contexts.More than numbers, CUIDA leaves behind stronger communities, renewed opportunities and hope for children and young people in Cabo Delgado.