Health System Strengthening Project Leaves Lasting Legacy in Nampula

By António Massipa

A project aimed at strengthening Nampula's health system against COVID-19 and future pandemics has successfully concluded, leaving behind a more resilient province. The "Nampula Health System strengthening for COVID-19 Response and future Pandemics" project, funded by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA) and implemented by World Vision Mozambique in partnership with the government, directly benefited over 5,500 people and indirectly impacted 1.7 million over 21 months.

A recent event celebrated the project's achievements and brought together government representatives, World Vision staff, beneficiaries, and key partners. Jaime Neto, Secretary of State in Nampula, praised the project's impact and stressed the importance of continued capacity building to address pandemic-related challenges.  “This event allows us to reflect and share experiences on responding to pandemics and future public health emergencies," he stated.

Dr. Geraldino Avalinho, from the Provincial Health Service, thanked World Vision for their commitment and affirmed the government's dedication to maintaining the project's progress. "We have learned valuable lessons, and we are confident that the districts are now well-equipped to handle public health events," he declared.

Project Manager David Chicote emphasized the collaborative success between World Vision and the health sector. "The project implemented various activities focused on institutional capacity building in nine districts, including social protection measures. I believe the health sector has truly taken ownership of this project," he said.

Key Project impacts included training of rapid response teams to effectively handle health emergencies, provision of personal protective equipment (PPE) to frontline health workers, and social protection initiatives that empowered individuals and families in nine districts: Nacala Porto, Monapo, Meconta, Erati, Nampula City, Moma, Angoche, Ribaue, and Malema.

One beneficiary shared how the project's social protection component enabled her to start a small business, providing for her family and children's education. "I am grateful for the opportunity this project has given me," said Natália Roroge.

Looking Ahead: Sustainability and Expansion

Nampula District Administrator, Irene Mega, urged the government to prioritize the sustainability of project activities and implement continuous monitoring. She also challenged World Vision to consider local contexts when allocating budgets and to expand the reach of future projects.