Foreword by Armando Emílio Guebuza, President of the Republic of Mozambique

The present report evaluates the progress made in Mozambique towards achieving the MDGs in Mozambique over the period 2003-2008. This is the third progress report which allows to reflect on achievements and their impact, and to identify priorities and challenges to speed up the realization of the MDGs. As in previous editions, this report seeks to systematically document progress in the implementation of the Government’s Programme, with a particular focus on achievement of the MDGs and the Mozambican National Vision as consecrated in the Agenda 2015.

The report shows that Mozambique has continued to record significant progress over the last five years. Special reference is made to economic growth, exemplary in the region, inflation contained to one digit, improvements in access to education, reductions in infant mortality rates and improvements to the business environment amongst others. The incidence of adverse natural phenomena (the combined impact of floods, droughts, and cyclones) linked to international price rises in oil and foodstuffs, the HIV/AIDS pandemic, malaria and other diseases have often challenged our efforts and successes in achieving the MDGs.

However, Mozambique continues to be committed to achieving the MDGs. This challenge requires concerted and continuous effort by the Government and by all its development partners in the coming years. It is only through uniting our efforts that we can achieve the future that we have planned led by Mozambicans – a better future in which Mozambicans free themselves from all forms of poverty.