A Plate of Hope: Finland Supports School Meals for Children in Northern Mozambique
Written By Maxine Ansah
Get real time updates directly on you device, subscribe now.
In the northern stretches of Mozambique, where conflict and climate shocks have left communities grappling with hunger and hardship, a warm plate of food may seem like a small gesture. Yet, for more than 56,000 schoolchildren along the Nacala Corridor in Nampula Province, it is a vital lifeline. Thanks to a recent contribution from the Government of Finland, these children will now receive daily hot meals through the National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme (PRONAE), supported by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP).
Finland has provided EUR 500,000 (approximately USD 540,000) to WFP, reinforcing its long-standing partnership with Mozambique and furthering its commitment to global education and nutrition. The funding will enable the immediate rollout of hot meals across selected primary schools, aiming to improve learning outcomes while tackling malnutrition and food insecurity in one of the most vulnerable parts of the country.
“School meals are more than just a plate of food; they are a vital investment in the future of Mozambican children,” said Satu Lassila, Ambassador of Finland to Mozambique. “Finland has a long-standing partnership with Mozambique, including in education. I am delighted that we can now support Mozambican children also in this way.”
Mozambique is currently facing its worst food insecurity crisis in recent years. According to WFP, nearly 40 percent of children under five are suffering from stunted growth, while over 5 million people require urgent humanitarian assistance. The northern region has been particularly affected due to protracted conflict and recurring climate shocks, such as floods and droughts, which have severely disrupted agriculture and livelihoods.
Antonella D’Aprile, WFP Country Director in Mozambique, highlighted the impact of this contribution. “Investing in school meals is one of the smartest and most impactful ways to support the next generations in Mozambique. Thanks to Finland’s generous contribution, thousands of children will receive the nourishment they need to learn and build a better future—not only for themselves but for the country as a whole.”
Beyond the immediate benefits of reducing hunger, school feeding programmes have been shown to improve school attendance, boost learning outcomes, and reduce poverty. They also serve as a platform to promote local agriculture and community resilience. PRONAE, which is led by the Government of Mozambique, is designed to source food locally, thus supporting smallholder farmers and strengthening food systems.
As a founding member and co-chair of the Global School Meals Coalition, Finland has been a steadfast supporter of school feeding initiatives around the world. This latest contribution builds on a shared vision with WFP and Mozambique to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive, beginning with a nutritious meal at school.
With children now returning to classrooms in Nampula, the impact of this support will be felt far beyond the schoolyard. It is a reminder that in times of crisis, even small acts of solidarity, such as a daily meal, can lay the foundation for resilience, dignity and hope.
