Inequality, poor healthcare, and limited access to schooling means Mozambique is one of the poorest countries in south-eastern Africa.

On top of this, conflict continues to affect northern provinces. Climate change means extreme weather events, like flooding and cyclones, are becoming more frequent.

In 2022, 2,608 people were diagnosed with leprosy in Mozambique. 221 of these cases were children under the age of 15.

We work with The Leprosy Mission Mozambique to support communities in Cabo Delgado and Zambezia. We are improving healthcare, supporting community development, and boosting climate-resilient livelihoods.

Healthcare

Healthcare in Mozambique is extremely limited, especially in rural areas. More than half of Mozambicans have to walk for an hour or longer to their nearest health facility. Most medical centres are basic, and staff are often over-stretched.

We work with The Leprosy Mission Mozambique, the Ministry of Health, and the local leprosy people’s organisation to improve healthcare. We train government health staff to effectively diagnose and treat leprosy. We also teach leprosy-affected communities self-care techniques.

Improving quality of life

Most people in rural areas of Mozambique rely on farming for food and income. Recent cyclones, droughts and floods have caused crop failure and plunged people even deeper into poverty.

We support rural communities to build climate resilient livelihoods. And we also support community savings group, where people affected by leprosy can develop small businesses and save for emergencies.