Inhambane

SOS Children’s Villages supports individual children, young people and families so that they can thrive (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Mozambique).

The coastal city of Inhambane in south-eastern Mozambique is known locally as ‘Terra de Boa Gente’ (Land of Good People). It is the capital city of Inhambane Province, which is the predominantly agricultural region that surrounds the city. The fishing industry is prominent, but the farming of cashews, coconuts and citrus fruits are also popular in the region. Over a third of the population in Inhambane live in poverty. Many families rely on subsistence farming, but with extreme weather changes and outdated farming methods and equipment, securing a stable livelihood is a challenge.

Since 2008, SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children, young people and families and advocating for their rights in Inhambane.

47%
Of children do not complete primary school

Low levels of education

While there have been vast improvements in the number of children who enroll in school, almost half of children living in Inhambane do not complete their primary education. The quality of education is low and vulnerable children are more likely to drop out of school as they do not receive the support they need. Some children drop out to help take care of their brothers and sisters, or contribute to the household income in the absence of parental care.

8 in 10
Children in Inhambane live without electricity

Housing poverty

Most families in Inhambane live in homes without electricity. Without electricity, families are unable to light their homes at night, to power communication devices such as radios, or to refrigerate foods. Families must spend what little money they have on disposable batteries for small lamps or kerosene for cooking. Not only does this make their everyday life at home difficult, but they also have fewer opportunities to earn a living.

Your support makes a difference for children in Inhambane

SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
130
Families
Can stay together
90
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
10
Young people
Are supported on their way to independence
Children in our care having fun playing together. Siblings grow up with each other, and often form bonds that last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Mozambique).

How your support helps in Inhambane

Strengthening vulnerable families and communities
When parents face hardships, they can sometimes struggle to give children the care they need. SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities. Each family needs different support so that they can stay together. This support can include workshops on parenting and children’s rights. We also run training so that parents can get the skills they need to get a job or start their own businesses. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to school.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.
Supporting young people to become independent
To help young people become confident and independent, our local team works closely with each young person to develop a plan for their future. We support young people and also help them prepare for the labour market and increase their employment prospects. For example, young people can attend workshops and trainings run by SOS Children’s Villages. They also improve their skills through taking part in different projects with local mentors and businesses.