The Government of Mozambique has had as a central pillar of its development strategy the principle that the district is the “pole” of development. The decentralization of administration, decision making and service provision is fairly advanced due the government’s more than decade-long programme which has, throughout, benefited from UNDP support. Further enhancement of capacities at the district and local level would increase accountability of governance and responsiveness to the local needs, for example in employment development.

The justice sector in Mozambique, while improving, remains weak throughout the system, creating the conditions for rights abuses. Access to justice is still inequitably available or unavailable altogether to most Mozambicans. There is also a need to emphasize the protection of the rights of the vulnerable, gender equality, combating gender-based violence and protecting human rights. From the capacity of the police, to the conditions in the prisons, and all the way through the judicial system there is the need for strong support if human rights abuses are to be avoided, and safety and security assured. At the same time, the rule of law forms the basis for creating an enabling business environment and attracting foreign direct investment for creating employment and economic growth.

Mozambique is going through an important phase in the process of deepening its democracy. A record of smooth and peaceful elections in 2009, and an increasing number of elected positions at provincial and municipal level, as well as the emergence of a new opposition party, have deepened the democratic process in the country.

However, the Government is committed to strengthening the electoral process further and putting additional emphasis on civic education. In spite of a free press and growing civil society, the monitoring and accountability mechanisms within the Mozambican polity need stronger capacity support. There is a need for backing up Parliament’s ability to oversee and evaluate the implementation of national development programmes, and to reinforce its budget oversight functions.