ADVANCING ACCOUNTABLE PRIVATE SECURITY IN MOZAMBIQUE

From 9-13 December 2025, ICoCA visited Mozambique to engage stakeholders across government, industry, clients and civil society to promote accountable, rights-respecting practices in the private security sector.

In collaboration with ICoCA CSO Member Centro Para Democracia e Direitos Humanos (CDD) and the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF), an Observer of the Association, ICoCA co-hosted a conference in Maputo on “Strengthening Private Security: Standards, Professionalism, and Human Rights.” The event highlighted the distinct roles of each stakeholder group and the importance of collective action.

Government representatives from Mozambique, the Swiss FDFA and the UK FCDO stressed the need to strengthen regulation and improve coordination across state institutions. Industry actors from G4S, GardaWorld, Executive Protection and Gemfields Group shared best practices and initiatives to raise operational standards. Clients discussed their role in promoting responsible security, while civil society organisations showcased their work documenting violations, detecting patterns and supporting grievance mechanisms.

A key theme was the importance of collaboration across sectors, with strong emphasis on good working conditions, dignity, respect and career development for security personnel.

The discussions also feed into Mozambique’s upcoming National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights and support the government’s consideration of joining ICoCA, reflecting a commitment to building a responsible private security sector.

ICoCA’s mission reinforced the value of sustained, country-focused engagement. By working closely with all local stakeholders, the Association ensures its efforts are tailored to local realities, sustainable and fully aligned with its global mission. The team will return early next year to continue this collaboration, developing a roadmap for stronger, more accountable security practices.

Through dialogue, partnership and shared responsibility, ICoCA is advancing safer, more professional private security – one country at a time.