Mozambique

Working environment

• The new Government was sworn in in 2015, amidst escalating political tensions accompanied by violent clashes in the centre of the country.  
• Major flooding at the beginning of the year affected 160,000 people and displaced some 50,000 in the central region. The UN Humanitarian Country Team (HCT) was mobilized to support the Government with relief efforts. UNHCR chaired the protection cluster in the response.
• Nearly 60 per cent of people of concern (PoC) reside in Marratane camp, Nampula district. However, refugees who are self-reliant are permitted to reside in urban areas.  
• Access to basic services in the camp are provided by the Government of Mozambique through the Institute for Refugee Support (INAR) and five line ministries, with some support from UNHCR.

Population trends

• By December 2015, there were 20,447 PoC in Mozambique (5,622 refugees and 14,825 asylum-seekers). The majority of the population originated from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, followed by Burundi, Somalia and Rwanda. 94 refugees departed for resettlement.
• On average, Mozambique received between 190 to 220 individuals per month, leading to an increase in the camp population by 15 per cent from 2014. The highest numbers of new arrivals were Burundians (1,586) and Congolese (1,259)

Achievements and impact  

• UNHCR developed a strategy to support a multi-year joint programme with WFP to further self-reliance and local integration in Marratane. In line with UNHCR’s Alternative to Camps policy, the programme aims at achieving economic growth, promoting livelihood opportunities and ensuring the balanced use of shared resources. 
• A nutritional survey and Joint Assessment Mission took place together with a cash-based intervention feasibility assessment. Preliminary findings indicate critical needs in food security. 
• Child protection was strengthened with the identification and profiling of 5,874 children. A child protection strategy was drafted and tools were put in place to improve case management.

Unmet needs

• In the absence of a proper development strategy for Nampula province, where Maratane camp should be included as a potential development driver, the camp population is likely to remain dependent on humanitarian aid. 
• Additional funding is required to adequately support the roll-out of the RSD backlog project and achieve efficient and fair RSD procedures. 
• Only 368 out of 600 students were enrolled in secondary school.  
• In addition to life-saving interventions for the growing camp population, there is an increased need for assistance in secondary and tertiary education, and tailored assistance for urban-based PoC.