Dorcas Mozambique continues as local organisation Mãos Unidas

A new step towards sustainable impact

Dorcas Mozambique is continuing as an independent local NGO under the name ‘Mãos Unidas’, which means ‘United Hands’. This change enables the organisation to create impact in a more sustainable way, with greater scope for tailor-made solutions and local leadership.

Agnes Kroese (CEO of Dorcas): “Sometimes, in order to grow, you need to dare to let go.”

Transition to an independent organisation

Mozambique, one of the poorest countries in the world, requires a specific approach. Since its start in 2001, Dorcas Mozambique has achieved a lot as a country office of Dorcas Aid International. However, over time it became clear that implementing projects in the country as an international organisation was no longer viable; the required investments no longer matched the level of impact that could be achieved in this way. Therefore, a process of becoming independent was initiated. As a local NGO, Mãos Unidas can now respond more flexibly to local needs and continue working in a small-scale, effective, and sustainable manner.

A considered, forward-looking step

The decision to become independent was made possible in part thanks to years of investment in local leadership. Although the name is changing, the mission of Mãos Unidas remains similar. The organisation focuses on long-term solutions in areas such as livelihoods, food security, economic development, water management, climate resilience, and community development. In times of crisis, Mãos Unidas not only provides emergency assistance but also supports communities to recover and develop.

Mãos Unidas is officially registered as a national NGO in Mozambique, ready to carry forward it’s important work. With this step, Mãos Unidas can now independently build on the foundation laid by Dorcas in Mozambique since 2001. This foundation creates opportunities for a sustainable future. Dorcas will remain involved until 2026 to ensure a smooth transition. This development in Mozambique aligns with the course Dorcas has been charting for 45 years: always focussed on lasting impact.

We confidently hand over the work to a strong, local organisation. We look back with appreciation on the collaboration with our colleagues in Mozambique and are grateful for the results we have achieved together over the years with our local colleagues, supporters, and partners. We wish Mãos Unidas all the best and God’s blessing for the future.

06 May 2025