The Mozambican government reaffirmed on Wednesday its commitment to strengthening investment in science, research, and innovation, arguing that knowledge produced in the country must contribute to better public policies and sustainable development. The position was expressed by Prime Minister Benvinda Levi during celebrations marking the 30th anniversary of the Manhiça Health Research Centre (CISM), where she represented President Daniel Chapo, who was on a four-day working visit to Portugal.
In her address, Benvinda Levi underscored that the government would continue to prioritise the strengthening of scientific institutions and the training of national researchers. “The Government of Mozambique recognises science, research, and innovation as pillars of national development. We will therefore continue to strengthen scientific institutions, train human resources, and bring research closer to public health priorities,” she said.
The prime minister also argued that national scientific output must be directly linked to improvements in the living conditions of the population. “Knowledge only fully fulfils its mission when it is translated into better policies, better services, and a better quality of life for citizens,” she declared.
The ceremony also marked three decades of activity by CISM, an institution established in 1996 through a partnership between Mozambique, Spain, and various scientific and academic bodies. According to Benvinda Levi, the centre has become a scientific reference point in Africa and globally, contributing to the fight against diseases including malaria, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and respiratory and diarrhoeal diseases.
Among the results highlighted, the prime minister pointed to CISM’s participation in the clinical development of the world’s first malaria vaccine. “This is an achievement that honours Manhiça, honours Mozambique, and gives hope to many African families,” she said.
She also noted that studies conducted by the institution contributed to the introduction of vaccines considered essential to the Expanded Programme on Immunisation. “The science produced in our country improves the lives of our children, our families, and our communities,” she added.
During her speech, the government also acknowledged the role played by cooperation partners, with particular recognition given to the Kingdom of Spain through the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation, as well as the Foundation for Community Development and the Barcelona Institute for Global Health.
Benvinda Levi further highlighted the contribution of communities involved in the research projects developed by CISM, describing their participation as decisive in the advances achieved over the past three decades.
“To the communities of Manhiça, Quelimane, and other regions of our country, we extend our deepest gratitude. Your trust, participation, and generosity were decisive for every advance achieved,” she declared.
Looking ahead, the prime minister reiterated the need to expand national scientific capacity. “Mozambique needs more science. It needs more researchers. It needs more innovation produced on our own territory,” she said, adding that the government intends to strengthen advanced training for young researchers and create conditions for knowledge produced in the country to contribute to sustainable, inclusive, and resilient development.
Source: Diário Económico
Original article: https://www.diarioeconomico.co.mz/2026/07/16/economia/desenvolvimento/governo-aposta-no-reforco-da-investigacao-cientifica-ao-servico-da-saude-publica/
