The "PRO-CÍVICO and Human Rights" project in Niassa province, northern Mozambique, was launched last Friday, September 8, in that part of the country, in an event attended by 58 people, including representatives of the provincial and district governments, political parties, cooperation partners, civil society and academics. In addition to Niassa, the project covers the provinces of Cabo Delgado, Zambézia and Nampula.
The initiative aims to promote greater visibility, participation and engagement of CSOs (Civil Society Organizations) and citizens in the decision-making process.
The project, funded by Finland, will be implemented by a consortium made up of four entities, namely the MASC Foundation, the Center for Democracy and Human Rights (CDD), IMD - Institute for Multiparty Democ racy (IMD) and the Civil Society Learning and Empowerment Center - CESC (CESC).
OXFAM, represented at the meeting, believes that despite the knowledge and existence of spaces for citizen and civil society participation in public debate, their action is still far from effective.
Many CSOs have noted a closing of civic space and a deterioration in relations of trust with the government, coupled with the emergence of a less tolerant, more hostile and intimidating environment for advocacy and campaign work, especially in election years.
Aware of this gloomy outlook, the four entities (MASC Foundation, CDD, IMD and CESC) conceived the PRO-CIVIC and Human Rights project as an alternative aimed at promoting greater visibility, participation and engagement of CSOs and citizens in the decision-making process at different levels of governance, making them influential players in promoting inclusive governance that is sensitive to human rights issues and respects the needs of marginalized groups.
During the launch of the initiative, Rafajabo Cimalawwonga, a teacher, social activist and development agent, spoke about the dynamics of civil society in Niassa province, pointing out the challenges and opportunities for participation in governance.
In Niassa province, this project covers the districts of Lichinga, Chimbonila, Nipepe, Mandimba and Cuamba.
