As urbanization accelerates and climate risks intensify, Mozambican cities are on the frontlines of the climate crisis. Pemba, Ibo, and Beira, three emblematic coastal cities, face growing challenges from floods, coastal erosion, and rising temperatures, all of which threaten livelihoods, infrastructure, and ecosystems.
To address these challenges, the CAMBIO Project (Actions in Favor of the Climate and Environment for the Integration of Response Plans of Coastal Cities in Mozambique) was launched. Funded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) through the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS), CAMBIO is a three-year initiative implemented by AVSI Foundation, in collaboration with the E-35 Foundation, FACE – Community and Ecological Action Front for Urban Sanitation, the Politecnico di Milano (Department of Architecture and Urban Studies), and Lúrio University of Mozambique.
Cities at the Heart of Climate Action
Urban areas are both contributors to and victims of climate change, but they also hold the keys to sustainable solutions. CAMBIO seeks to strengthen the resilience and adaptive capacity of Pemba, Ibo, and Beira by embedding climate and environmental priorities into local development plans.
Aligned with Mozambique’s National Strategy for Adaptation and Mitigation of Climate Change (2013–2025), the project aims to improve planning and governance processes while fostering community engagement. Over its 36-month implementation period, CAMBIO will directly benefit around 49,000 residents and indirectly reach 1.6 million people, contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), Goal 13 (Climate Action), and Goal 15 (Life on Land).
From planning to practice: a participatory approach
CAMBIO combines technical expertise with local participation to create practical, replicable models for sustainable urban management. The project’s pilot actions focus on both environmental restoration and risk reduction, including:
- Reforestation and mangrove restoration in coastal zones;
- Improvement of drainage systems and creation of green infiltration areas;
- Promotion of urban gardens and sustainable waste management;
- Training and awareness activities for municipal technicians and community members on climate risk prevention.
These activities aim to inspire and guide other municipalities in Mozambique to integrate environmental priorities into their local agendas.
Celebrating World Cities Day: shaping a sustainable urban future
Each year on 31 October, the world celebrates World Cities Day, a moment to reflect on the importance of sustainable urbanization for inclusive, resilient, and safe cities. The 2025 theme, “Building sustainable urban futures,” resonates deeply with CAMBIO’s vision - empowering communities and local governments to plan and act for climate resilience.
Through this initiative, AVSI and its partners reaffirm their commitment to supporting Mozambican cities in their journey toward a greener and more sustainable future.
AVSI’s Commitment to Urban Resilience in Mozambique
Beyond CAMBIO, AVSI is actively engaged in promoting sustainable urban development across Mozambique. From improving basic services in informal settlements to strengthening community participation and urban governance, AVSI’s work contributes to creating cities that are more inclusive, resilient, and responsive to the needs of their people - ensuring that no one is left behind in the face of climate and environmental challenges.