Five years after the COVID19 pandemic, Mozambique—like the rest of the world—continues to apply lessons learned about surveillance, early detection, and rapid response. The pandemic underscored the critical need for scientific and technological investment to ensure preparedness for future outbreaks. 

Today, the world faces intersecting crises—ranging climate shocks and conflict-related disruptions to recurring disease outbreaks — that continue to strain health systems and threaten hard-won development gains. Against this backdrop, Mozambique’s future Genomic Surveillance Center marks a pivotal milestone in strengthening national capabilities to adapt and rapidly respond to emerging health threats. The Center will expand the application of genomics in public health, contributing to improved research, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases that affect humans, animals, plants, and the environment—advancing the One Health framework. 

This commitment echoes ongoing national efforts to scale up genomics capacity, including the recently launched 10-year Integrated Genomics Strategic Plan, which aims to build a unified and sustainable system for generating and using genomic data. The architectural design of the Genomic Surveillance Center incorporates modern technologies that ensure functionality, resilience, and sustainability. Key features include: 

• renewable energy systems; reliable water supply infrastructure; an internal digital data network; enhanced security systems; inclusive elements that promote safety and accessibility for women and persons with disabilities. 

These features ensure that the Center not only responds to immediate needs but also anticipates future challenges, reinforcing long-term resilience. 

Through the Health System Strengthening project, UNDP collaborates with MISAU and the Global Fund on other infrastructure investments to strengthen capabilities for health research and data management. These include the construction, rehabilitation, and equipping of public health laboratories, regional INS centers, and a Bioinformatics Center at INS Headquarters. 

These initiatives reflect UNDP’s continued commitment to innovation, equity, and sustainability within Mozambique’s health sector. As Mozambique pushes forward toward the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, UNDP remains steadfast in its mission to strengthen national capacity, foster inclusive development, and ensure that no one is left behind.