Beira, 13 February – In the face of a pressing displacement crises, Mozambique has taken a critical step forward. The International Organization for Migration (IOM), in collaboration with the National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD), the UNHCR, UNFPA and UNICEF, hosted a two-day workshop in Beira, Sofala, on 12–13 February. Titled "Strengthening Capacity for Data for Solutions through Data and Information Management in Mozambique," the event gathered over 30 participants, including central and provincial government representatives from Maputo, Sofala, Manica, Tete, and Zambezia districts, and humanitarian and development partners. The initiative aimed to enhance government officials’ ability to address internal displacement and promote long-term solutions for internally displaced persons (IDPs) through improved data- driven decision-making and coordination.

The workshop provided hands-on training and sparked in-depth discussions on data for solutions. Participants explored pivotal policies and tools such as the government’s Policy for the Management of Internally Displaced Persons (PEGDI), the Durable Solutions Indicators, and the Solutions and Mobility Index (SMI). These frameworks are key to equipping local authorities and other actors with the skills to collect and analyse data, assess IDPs’ needs effectively, enabling well-coordinated and impactful interventions.

IOM, INGD and partners remain committed to strengthening local data management systems and capacity of local government officials, to ensure that interventions are based on accurate, real-time data to reach those most in need.

“Strengthening local capacity is essential for sustainable solutions. With accurate, real-time data, we can better address the needs of those most affected,” emphasized Mr. Adelto Chambela, Director of the Social Safeguards Division of INGD, underscoring the importance of the workshop.

As of July 2024, Northern Mozambique continues to face a severe displacement crisis, with over 577,000 individuals displaced due to conflict and climate-related events (See full report). While Cabo Delgado hosts the majority of displaced persons, smaller populations are also seeking refuge in Nampula and Niassa provinces. In central Mozambique, as of August 2024, over 181,000 people were internally displaced, primarily due to climate shocks. By December 2024, the total number of IDPs across the country surpassed 700,000. The combined impact of Non-State Armed Group (NSAG) insurgencies and recurring climate shocks—cyclones, floods, and droughts—continues to cause displacement deepen vulnerabilities.

For many, displacement is not a one-time ordeal. Families are forced to relocate multiple times, often facing inadequate living conditions, limited healthcare, disrupted education, and scarce job opportunities. Although 570,000 individuals have returned to their areas of origin, their lives remain far from stable, as they struggle to rebuild amid ongoing challenges.

This workshop is part of IOM’s ongoing support to address internal displacement through sustainable solutions in Mozambique. By enhancing the skills of local stakeholders in data management, IOM is supporting Mozambique move towards durable solutions that ensure improved living conditions, livelihoods, and protection for displaced communities.

The importance of data-driven solutions is echoed in the Global Compact for Migration, which emphasizes the role of data in protecting migrants' rights and ensuring their well- being. The Compact highlights the necessity of accurate data for identifying trends, tracking progress, and designing policies that address the specific challenges faced by displaced populations. By aligning with this international framework, IOM and its partners are supporting Mozambique ensure that aid reaches those most in need while supporting long-term solutions for displaced communities.

“Data is not just numbers; it is the foundation of effective humanitarian action. By investing in data systems and local capacity, we are empowering Mozambique to create long-term, people-centric and inclusive solutions for displaced populations,” stated an IOM representative.

The workshop’s success reflects the collaborative efforts of IOM, INGD, National Institute of Statistics (INE), Post Cyclone Reconstruction Cabinet (GREPOC), and key partners, including UNHCR, UNFPA and UNICEF. By working together, these organizations are reinforcing Mozambique’s ability to address displacement challenges with a unified, data-driven approach.

The revitalized focus on data and information management is a vital step toward achieving durable solutions—ensuring displaced communities not only survive but thrive. Through workshops like this, Mozambique is building the foundation for a future where displacement is met with coordinated responses, improved living conditions, and sustainable livelihoods.

As Mozambique continues to face the ripple effects of conflict and climate-related shocks, this workshop marks a significant step in enhancing the country’s capacity to leverage data for solutions. Strengthening the skills and coordination of key stakeholders is essential to ensuring evidence-based, inclusive, and durable solutions for IDPs.

For more details, please contact:

Maputo:

Amanda Nero, anero@iom.int

Pretoria:

Abibo Ngandu, angandu@iom.int