The violent extremism (VE) in Cabo Delgado started in October 2017 when an extremist non-state armed group attacked a police station and district administration buildings in Mocimboa da Praia. The violence has escalated in the years since, spreading to the other two northern provinces, namely Nampula and Cabo Delgado. Security forces, with assistance from international actors, are continuing efforts to stabilise the region; however, the situation remains volatile.

In Mozambique, the drivers behind violent extremism are complex, but three of the most widely identified are: socio-economic hardships, lack of sense of purpose and perceived marginalisation. GCERF began investing in the country in 2024 and till date USD 4 million has been invested to address these drivers and strengthen community resilience against violent extremism.