University Libraries in Mozambique: Strategic Spaces for Sustainable Development

Martinho Cumbane"

Mozambique is a member of the United Nations and has actively participated in the development of Universal Development Agendas, such as the Millennium Declaration of 2000-2015, the Addis Ababa Action Agenda and, more recently, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. As a signatory to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it has committed to a global plan that aims to eradicate poverty, promote prosperity and protect the planet by 2030. This commitment requires concrete actions in several areas, from education to technological innovation. In this context, university libraries play a fundamental role, not only as guardians of knowledge, but as active agents in promoting sustainable development. However, in order for them to fully fulfil this mission, it is necessary to overcome structural and financial challenges that still limit their potential.

In a country where many students lack access to basic bibliographic materials, public university libraries emerge as essential spaces for ensuring equity in higher education. The Brazão Mazula Central Library of Eduardo Mondlane University (UEM) is a positive example, with its physical and digital collection and information literacy training programs through the provision of appropriate reference services. These initiatives directly contribute to SDG 4, which seeks to ensure quality and inclusive education. However, other institutions, such as the Pedagogical University of Maputo (UP), face technological and infrastructural limitations that hinder equal access to knowledge. This disparity reflects the need for urgent investment to modernize libraries across the country, ensuring that all universities can offer excellent services.

In addition to education, university libraries have an important role to play in promoting gender equality (SDG 5). Although some institutions, such as UEM, already hold debates and provide resources on gender issues, these initiatives are still isolated and lack a more systematic approach. Integrating gender policies into library activities could strengthen inclusion and contribute to a more just society.

In the field of innovation and infrastructure (SDG 9), the challenges are even more evident. While UEM has made progress in digitizing collections and creating institutional repositories, other universities continue to operate with obsolete equipment and unstable internet connections. This technological inequality not only limits national scientific production, but also prevents Mozambique from fully exploring its innovative potential. To reverse this scenario, it is essential to invest in digital infrastructure and in the training of qualified professionals, in addition to fostering partnerships with international knowledge-sharing networks.

Libraries can also be spaces for promoting peace and justice (SDG 16), functioning as platforms for democratic access to information and intellectual freedom. However, in Mozambique, scientific knowledge often circulates in a restricted manner, and the connection between libraries and civil society is still fragile. Expanding this dialogue could strengthen an evidence-based culture and contribute to the construction of more transparent and effective institutions.

The UNESCO Manifesto for Public Libraries reinforces the importance of these spaces as inclusive and community-oriented environments. However, in Mozambique, there is still a separation between academia and the general public. UEM has taken some steps in this direction, promoting events open to the community, but these initiatives are still in their infancy. UP, on the other hand, has a longer road ahead, with few community outreach actions. To change this scenario, it is essential to develop policies that encourage the opening of university libraries to society, transforming them into spaces for meeting, debate and collective learning.

The path for Mozambican university libraries to become true drivers of sustainable development requires continued investment in infrastructure, professional training and integration into global knowledge networks. The State, in partnership with international organizations and civil society, must prioritize policies that strengthen these institutions, ensuring that they can fulfill their role in the 2030 Agenda. The positive experiences already existing, such as those of UEM, show that transformation is possible. With adequate resources and a strategic vision, university libraries can become fundamental pillars for a more just, innovative and sustainable Mozambique.

2025/12/3