U.S. Department of State 2003 Trafficking in Persons Report - Mozambique
| Publisher | United States Department of State |
| Author | Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons |
| Publication Date | 11 June 2003 |
| Cite as | United States Department of State, U.S. Department of State 2003 Trafficking in Persons Report - Mozambique, 11 June 2003, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/4680d7d528.html [accessed 3 June 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
Mozambique (Tier 2)
Mozambique is a source country for men, women, and children trafficked to South Africa for forced labor and commercial sexual exploitation. Trafficking of children for forced labor and commercial sexual exploitation occurs within the country.
The Government of Mozambique does not fully comply with the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking; however, it is making significant efforts to do so despite severe resource constraints. Mozambique's monitoring of borders remains weak, and corruption hampers cooperation with neighboring law enforcement officials.
Prevention
A multi-sectoral anti-trafficking "Campaign Against Trafficking in Children," kicked off by the Prime Minister, includes public figures, well-known musicians, and Catholic Church dignitaries. The campaign continues with a massive public awareness effort on radio and television, training for journalists, workshops for children, and training for police officers. Children participate in nationwide debates, festivals, dances, dramas, and in the creation of leaflets to educate other children about prostitution. Lack of funds hampers the implementation of the national plan on abuse and exploitation of children.
Prosecution
There is no law against trafficking, and the government lacks investigative capacity; but prosecutions of cases of sexual assault and rape, some of which are trafficking-related, are on the increase. In 2002, there were seven cases in which exploiters were charged with indecent assault of a minor with penalties ranging from two to eight years. A training seminar was held to teach police officers how to recognize and investigate trafficking cases. Three pilot stations staffed with special officers trained to assist trafficking victims were set up in provincial capitals. Children are prohibited from going in nightclubs and cabarets. Two violations led to closure of the businesses.
Protection
Government assistance is available for victims on a short-term basis, but long-term care is limited by lack of funds. Victims are not mistreated when seeking assistance but are often asked to pay for medical tests. Government hospitals work with NGOs that provide victim assistance in Maputo, Beira, and Nampula. Maputo Central Hospital runs a youth psychological rehabilitation center to assist children traumatized by abduction and for victims of sexual abuse.
