A workshop on "Social protection as a mechanism for social inclusion", co-sponsored by RHVP and the ILO with the Ministry for Women and Social Affairs (MMAS) was held in Maputo, Mozambique on 23-24th August 2007 and attended by over 70 representatives of government departments and NGOs.

The first day presented the theoretical background to social protection, and then showcased cash transfer experiences from across southern Africa, providing evidence for how they promote economic growth. The second day provided a forum for discussing the potential for expanding social protection instruments in Mozambique under the new social protection framework. The minister for Women and Social Affairs, Honorouble Mrs Virgília dos Santos Matabele, was in attendance and has mandated MMAS and RHVP to sign a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance cooperation in taking forward the social protection agenda in Mozambique.

For more information on the workshop, go to http://wahenga.octoplus.co.za/index.php/views/workshop_view/seminario_aug2007/

*Picture: Mozambique Country Coordinator, Ms Anabela Mabota, and Minister for Women and Social Affairs, Honorouble Mrs Virgília dos Santos Matabele, sit on the panel