Hope, healing and progress in Mozambique

Mozambique has taken a significant step toward gender equality with the opening of its first Integrated Assistance Centre (CAI) in Murrupula District, Nampula Province. Working alongside government and community partners, this new centre was launched by the Every Girl Can (EGC) project, funded by Global Affairs Canada and delivered by World Vision, ActionAid and HOPEM.

Although Mozambique has made progress in promoting gender equality through national laws and policies, many women and girls still experience high levels of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). Survivors often struggle to access the support they need, especially in rural areas, necessitating the creation of the CAI.

A comprehensive service hub

The new CAI brings together essential support services in one central location, making it easier for survivors of SGBV to access the help they need. This coordinated approach ensures they receive timely, compassionate and comprehensive care without having to navigate multiple systems on their own.

At the CAI, survivors can receive immediate medical attention to address urgent health needs following an incident of violence. Psychosocial support is also available to help them begin the healing process and cope with trauma in a safe and supportive environment.

In addition, the centre offers legal aid services and connects survivors with the National Criminal Investigation Service (SERNIC) to support them in seeking justice. Social protection services are also provided to ensure that survivors have access to ongoing care and resources that support their recovery and long-term well-being.

By offering these critical services in one location, the CAI reduces barriers to access and helps survivors move forward with dignity and hope.

Staff from health, justice, police and social services work at the CAI. Each survivor’s case is handled using a “single file” approach, which ensures survivors do not have to repeat their story multiple times. This helps reduce trauma, increase confidentiality and make services more efficient and respectful.

Training service providers to respond with care and respect

Before the centre opened, the project provided training to local health workers, legal professionals, police officers and social workers. The training focused on survivor-centred approaches, ensuring all services are delivered with dignity, professionalism and care.

Local leadership ensures sustainability

To ensure the centre’s sustainability, the District Service of Health, Women and Social Action signed a formal agreement outlining their responsibilities to keep the centre running and report on its progress. Community leaders also pledged their support by raising awareness and encouraging survivors to use the centre.

Key leaders attended the CAI launch, including the Murrupula District Administrator, government representatives from health and social services, members of the adolescent steering committee and representatives from the High Commission of Canada in Mozambique. Their presence reflects the strong local commitment to tackling SGBV.

A community-based approach to ending gender-based violence

This new CAI shows how a coordinated, community-based approach can help remove barriers and ensure survivors receive life-changing support. It aligns with Canada’s international development priorities by promoting gender equality, protecting the rights of women and girls and strengthening local systems.

The EGC project continues to support the CAI with prevention efforts, such as awareness raising and capacity building on SGBV, economic empowerment and engaging boys and men as allies in ending violence. Plans are underway to open two more centres in the other districts where EGC is active.

Together we can end sexual and gender-based violence

Ending SGBV is possible with ongoing partnerships and strong community involvement. The CAI in Murrupula is more than a building—it’s a symbol of hope, healing and progress toward a future where every girl can live free from violence.

Related links:

• Every Girl Can
• Championing girls’ leadership in Mozambique: Creating pathways for equity and opportunity
• Two girls’ fight against gender inequality