Localizing the SDGs in Mozambique

What is SDG Localization?
The 2030 Agenda, adopted by all UN Member States in 2015, outlines 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a shared blueprint for peace, prosperity, and sustainability. While global in scope, the SDGs must be localized—adapted to local realities and implemented through grassroots initiatives led by local and central governments. Localization ensures the SDGs are embedded in local development strategies, with measurable targets and community participation.

Mozambique’s Context:

• Mozambique is divided into 11 provinces, 161 districts, 408 administrative posts, 1,132 localities, and 65 municipalities. Its geographical location makes it highly vulnerable to climate change impacts.
• A new decentralization framework, established in 2018, introduced Organs of Decentralized Provincial Governance (OGDPs), strengthening local governance and citizen participation.
• Mozambique conducted its first Voluntary National Review (VNR) in 2020, assessing SDG progress, challenges, and opportunities. The review emphasized transparency, inclusion, and participation as guiding principles.

Key Findings of the 2020 VNR:

• Provinces need stronger participation structures and technical support to operationalize the SDGs.
• Training for planners in decentralized and parliamentary bodies is critical.
• There is low public awareness of the SDGs, requiring urgent outreach through media, community radio, and traditional communication channels.
• Greater involvement of vulnerable groups—women, youth, the elderly, and persons with disabilities—is essential to ensure no one is left behind.

Institutional Framework:

• The Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) leads SDG localization, supported by methodological guidelines for planning, budgeting, and monitoring.
• In 2017, Mozambique created the National Reference Group for the SDGs (GRN-ODS), bringing together government, civil society, academia, private sector, and international partners.
• Thematic groups were formed to align stakeholders around SDG clusters:
  • Social: SDGs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 17 (led by FDC and PSC-PS)
  • Economic: SDGs 7, 8, 9, 11, 12 (led by GMD)
  • Environment: SDGs 13, 14, 15 (coordinated by UNDP)
  • Governance: SDG 16, 17 (led by civil society)
• Civil society and Provincial Development Observatories play a monitoring role, while Local Councils engage at district level.

Next Steps:
Strengthening provincial assemblies to integrate SDG indicators into strategies and budgets, ensuring resources from state and international partners are effectively mobilized to accelerate progress toward 2030.