Despite strong economic growth, many Mozambicans report feeling left behind in the country’s development. Poor governance is at the root of many citizens' frustrations; civil service capacity is low and perception of official corruption is high.
USAID has worked to increase transparency and accountability in local governments to improve their capacity to deliver quality public services to all Mozambicans. USAID also supports capacity-building for civil society, the media and the judicial system.
Governance and Rule of Law
Increasing government transparency and reducing corruption are priorities that cut across all our activities. Our anti-corruption program improves the criminal justice system at the local and national level. Through this program, we help train prosecutors in the Attorney General’s office to improve their case management and investigation skills in fighting corruption.
Elections
Weak management of elections processes and high absenteeism rates can damage the legitimacy of elected governments and weaken the confidence of citizens in their democracy. Support for increased political space and democratic competition can strengthen institutions and faith in government. We continue to strengthen the fairness of the elections process and increase the level of peaceful political competition in Mozambique to support a more representative political process. Supporting a revision of the elections process is important to establishing an effective electoral foundation for future municipal and national elections. Our elections work is also complemented by civil society programs that support increased debate and discussion and improve citizens’ knowledge of political processes.
Civil Society and Media
One of the United States’ top priorities is to encourage greater public debate and participation by the public to more effectively express their interests. We help Mozambique civil society to develop a stronger voice, increase demand for accountability, and provide information about and oversight over government activities. We focus on media and civil society as the means to promoting oversight and debate about government actions. Strengthening independent media and credible civil society organizations will lead to a more informed population and a greater demand for better services and good governance.
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