At the beginning, the program consisted of humanitarian aid, but in the 1990s, it was regularly adapted to the changing framework conditions and has since expanded considerably. Switzerland made an important contribution towards the implementation of the 1992 peace agreement, helping with the demobilisation and reintegration of former soldiers, as well as supporting the subsequent democratic elections. After the catastrophic floods of 2000, Switzerland participated in emergency and reconstruction assistance.

Within the framework of the current cooperation strategy (2007-2011) Switzerland provides assistance to Mozambique in the areas of programme aid partnership, economic development, health and local governance with gender and HIV/AIDS as transversal themes.

It renews Switzerland’s commitment to supporting the effort at reducing poverty in Mozambique.

Switzerland's activities are guided by the terms of the Paris Declaration to ensure ownership for the joint endeavours among the national partners and achieve a well coordinated and efficient cooperation with other donor agencies.

Switzerland aims to attain a balance in terms of focus, partners (government, civil society, private sector) and aid modalities (from project approaches to general budget support). It operates with a variety of stakeholders and supports governmental and non-governmental organizations.