Fundo Nacional de Investigação (Mozambique)

The Fundo Nacional de Investigação (FNI) plays a crucial role in promoting scientific research, technological innovation, and knowledge dissemination in Mozambique.

Its mission is to contribute to the country’s socio-economic development and poverty reduction through science and innovation. FNI also supports the training of researchers, helping build a skilled research workforce across Mozambique.

The Fund’s efforts align with national development goals and regional frameworks, such as the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and SADC funding agreements. These frameworks guide Mozambique’s research priorities and help secure sustainable funding.

Strengthening Research Through SGCI

Fundo Nacional de Investigação joined the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) to enhance its research funding and policy development capacities. Through this partnership, Mozambique has gained visibility as a reliable science funding partner.

The SGCI has supported policy discussions, ecosystem development, and collaboration. It also advocates for governments to invest 1% of GDP in research, a target Mozambique supports.

By participating in SGCI, FNI has improved its role in regional and global science networks. This includes attracting new funding and influencing national research policies. FNI sees SGCI as a catalyst for change and encourages other African nations to join. Their involvement demonstrates how strategic partnerships can strengthen research systems across the continent.

Building Strategic Partnerships

FNI values formal agreements with fellow science granting councils. It has a Memorandum of Understanding with South Africa’s National Research Foundation (NRF). This partnership includes the Oliver Tambo Research Chairs, which fund researchers both nationally and regionally. Mozambique also takes part in Africa-Japan collaborative research programmes (AJ-Core).

These partnerships demonstrate the value of science to governments and encourage increased investment. FNI advocates for African funding independence, aligned with regional and national development goals.

Leadership Perspective: Driving Sustainability Through Science

In a recent interview, Dirce Madeira, Head of the Projects M&E Department, and Edson Faria, Financial Chief at FNI, discussed the Fund’s evolving role. They emphasised how SGCI participation has helped position African science granting councils as partners of choice. They also highlighted the value of international collaboration in securing sustainable funding for African-led research.

With continued support from SGCI and regional partners, FNI is committed to building a sustainable and impactful research ecosystem in Mozambique and beyond.