In the context of the new phase of the cooperation programme between the Government of Mozambique and the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), known as Compact II, Alicia Robinson-Morgan, Acting Deputy Vice President for Africa at MCC, paid a courtesy visit to BIOFUND in Maputo.

The visit took place following the signing, on 29 April 2026 in Maputo, of an Aide-Mémoire between the Government of Mozambique and MCC, represented by the Minister of Planning and Development, Salim Valá, and Alicia Robinson-Morgan. The document establishes the basis for a new phase of programme implementation.

This milestone reaffirms the strength of the partnership between Mozambique and the United States of America and signals a renewed commitment to a transformative agenda focused on sustainable economic growth, investment mobilisation, and the strengthening of institutions.

The occasion provided an opportunity to reinforce institutional dialogue on biodiversity conservation, natural resource governance, risk mitigation, responsible investment, and the role of natural capital in Mozambique’s sustainable development.

During the visit, BIOFUND shared its experience as a national Conservation Trust Fund, established to support long-term financing for biodiversity and Conservation Areas. The importance of sustainable financial mechanisms, such as endowments, was highlighted, as they enable long-term planning and a more agile response to critical sector needs.

Results were also presented demonstrating BIOFUND’s evolution as a national platform for mobilising and channeling funds for conservation. In recent years, the institution has channelled approximately USD 138 million to projects, consolidated an endowment of USD 67 million, and disbursed around USD 55 million to Conservation Areas.

BIOFUND’s response during the COVID-19 pandemic was also highlighted as an example of the importance of having strong national institutions with rapid response capacity and field presence. Within two months, BIOFUND structured a support mechanism for the private sector and the Government, mobilising USD 3.5 million and supporting around one thousand people/families over 18 months.

As part of MCC’s engagement with implementing partners, including BIOFUND, a partner of CLCR, the commitment demonstrated throughout the period of uncertainty was acknowledged, and the continuity of the cooperation programme was reaffirmed.

The new strategic ambition of CLCR was also underscored, aimed at stimulating sectors linked to strategic natural resources through strengthened governance, risk mitigation, and the creation of more favourable conditions for responsible investment.

The visit reinforced recognition of BIOFUND’s strategic role in biodiversity conservation in Mozambique, as well as the centrality of natural capital as a pillar for development, value creation, and economic resilience for the country.