Despite the economic expansion that has characterized Mozambique in recent years, the country continues to occupy low positions in the Human Development Index, ranking 181st out of 188 countries (UNDP, 2016).

The Province of Zambézia, in particular, where the project took place, is one of the poorest in Mozambique: 2016 World Bank data estimate that 70% of the population of the province is below the poverty line and that half (48%) of the poor in the country are resident in this province, and in that of Nampula.

The project, in continuity with the previous programs, was carried out in 6 districts of the Province of Zambézia (Morrumbala, Mopeia, Derre, Nicoadala, Namacurra and Gilé) with the aim of consolidating the results achieved by progressing in improving the living conditions of the rural population.

Adult literacy. A training for 39 literates was carried out. The training also included the delivery of teaching material for the pupils of each district.

Promotion of gender equity. Three courses on gender-based violence were held with the participation of 54 women, including many community leaders. Fundamental rights provided for in Mozambican legislation were explored and it was illustrated where and how to report cases of violations against women and girls.

Strengthening of existing associative structures. In the field of rural development, practical training was promoted in 6 demonstration fields of one hectare each. Corn, beans, rice and cassava were planted in these fields. The necessary tools and seeds were distributed to the farmers. The growth of associative structures was encouraged with training activities for operators. In particular, the creation of a new District Union of Peasants in the nearby district of Mocubela, the seventeenth in the Province of Zambézia, should be noted. Particularly stimulated was the participation, within the UPC-Z, of young people and women, who, although constituting the main workforce, are often excluded from the analysis and decision-making processes of the problems that concern them. Lastly, income-generating activities continued, appropriately supported.

Visibility and communication. The theater proved to be very useful, in a context in which illiteracy reaches high levels, as a tool both to raise awareness on specific issues and to inform about project activities. The topics covered were: domestic violence against women, HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment, legislation and land rights, environment and climate change.

Great media coverage had the III General Assembly of the Provincial Union of Peasants of Zambezia, which saw the participation of 47 delegates from all over the province.

With regard to activities in Italy, the photographic exhibition “Di sole e di sabbia” exhibited first in Modena and currently at Mani Tese’s headquarters, and the printing and distribution of 150 brochures on “The Iron Age, about light alloys and beauty”, also available online.

The means of transport. 50 bicycles were distributed among the local operators of the project, the literates and the representatives of savings and credit activities.