In Mozambique children recruited by armed groups safely return to communities

In Ancuabe, a rural district in Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, children and families continue to face the effects of armed conflict and displacement. Schools and communities have been disrupted, and many children have been exposed to violence, trauma, and interrupted education.

To respond to these needs, the Junt@s project - “Support for Learning, Protection, and Empowerment of Children and Adolescents” - provided holistic support for children and adolescents, helping them recover, learn, and thrive despite the challenges. Funded by UNICEF and implemented by AVSI over two years, the initiative benefited more than 4,900 children and adolescents, fostering resilience, inclusion, and community empowerment in a context of extreme vulnerability. 

Mental health and psychosocial support formed the core of the project, reaching 4,905 people, including 1,312 children who participated in educational and recreational activities designed to rebuild confidence and emotional stability. AVSI identified and referred 1,467 cases of violence for follow-up. 

Among the most sensitive interventions were the reintegration of 439 children formerly associated with armed groups. Children who have been recruited or used by armed actors may be viewed with suspicion, or outright rejected, by their families and communities. Often referred to as “child soldiers,” these boys and girls suffer extensive forms of exploitation and abuse that are not fully captured by that term. Warring parties use children not only as fighters, but as scouts, cooks, porters, guards, messengers and more. Many, especially girls, are also subjected to gender-based violence. Children become part of an armed force or group for various reasons. Some are abducted, threatened, coerced or manipulated by armed actors. Others are driven by poverty, compelled to generate income for their families. Still others associate themselves for survival or to protect their communities. No matter their involvement, the recruitment and use of children by armed forces is a grave violation of child rights and international humanitarian law.

This means that children who had been forced or coerced into joining armed forces were safely returned to civilian life, provided with counseling, and re-enrolled in school, helping them regain a sense of normalcy and security. 

Community protection committees were strengthened to act as local guardians for children’s safety. Made up of community members, these committees prevent and respond to violence, promote reporting of abuse, mediate local conflicts, and raise awareness about children’s rights. 

"Before, children lived in fear and silence. Today, they talk, dream, and feel safe to go back to school," says Muamede Isaac, Community member reflecting on the positive impact of mental health and psychosocial support sessions. The project exceeded targets in community engagement by 130%, with 90% of communities expressing confidence in continuing these protection actions autonomously. 

Junt@s supported 4,242 children in safe learning environments, prioritizing accelerated learning and life skills to help them catch up on missed education. Teachers and facilitators were trained in child protection and violence prevention, transforming schools into inclusive spaces where children feel safe, supported, and motivated to learn. 

88% of children demonstrated improved emotional stability, a reduction in aggressive behavior, and greater engagement in studies. One teenage participant shared, "The project has given us tools to dream beyond conflict," reflecting the transformative impact of education and psychosocial support. 

1,353 people took part in intergenerational forums and peace clubs, spaces designed to bring together youth, elders, and community leaders to discuss challenges, resolve conflicts peacefully, and strengthen bonds across generations. In Ancuabe, 79% of participants involved in multiple project activities reported positive behavioral changes, such as listening more to children and reducing harsh punishment. 

The achievements of the Junt@s project underscore the importance of strengthening local capacities to ensure protection and quality education for all children. 

"It is this legacy that drives us: to build a future with people and for people," says Louis Deschamps, Junt@s Project Manager, AVSI Foundation.