Mozambique’s Humanitarian Crisis: The Impact of Cyclone Chido and Ongoing Displacement

Mozambique is facing a complex humanitarian emergency, with 3.3 million people projected to experience acute food insecurity from November 2024 to February 2025, exacerbated by the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Chido. The cyclone has caused deaths and increased displacement, particularly in Cabo Delgado Province, where violence reports have surged. An estimated 717,000 individuals are currently displaced, reflecting the growing humanitarian needs and the challenges of accessing affected populations.

As of December 2024, Mozambique faces a critical humanitarian crisis exacerbated by Tropical Cyclone Chido, which struck the northern region on December 15, 2024. The cyclone led to at least 73 fatalities and left approximately 329,500 individuals needing assistance, according to the Government of the Republic of Mozambique (GoRM). This natural disaster has intensified the existing challenges that the population faces, including conflict, disease outbreaks, and widespread displacement.

The ongoing conflict, particularly in the Cabo Delgado Province, has resulted in a significant rise in violence and displacement since October and November 2024. This trend raises serious protection concerns while also hindering access for humanitarian organizations, as reported by the United Nations. As a consequence of these multiple crises, an estimated 3.3 million people are projected to experience acute food insecurity between November and February, with 2.3 million currently requiring humanitarian aid, as per United Nations assessments.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that the number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Mozambique reached approximately 717,000, with around 577,000 of them fleeing from conflict in the northern regions. It is critical to note that approximately 611,000 individuals have returned to their areas of origin, further complicating the humanitarian landscape. Approximately 10 percent of the population faces Crisis-level (IPC Phase 3) food insecurity as households rapidly deplete their food supplies due to below-average harvests, impacting food security in the region.

Mozambique, a nation in southeastern Africa, has long grappled with a multitude of challenges, including frequent natural disasters and armed conflict, particularly in the northern province of Cabo Delgado. The area has witnessed intensifying violence from non-state armed groups (NSAG), resulting in considerable displacement and humanitarian needs. The recurring threats posed by tropical cyclones add a layer of complexity to the existing socio-economic challenges, causing significant disruption in food security and community stability. Reports from organizations such as the United Nations and the International Organization for Migration indicate a dire need for humanitarian support as the country struggles to recover from these compounded crises.

In summary, Mozambique is currently experiencing a multifaceted humanitarian emergency marked by severe food insecurity, widespread displacement due to conflict, and the repercussions of Tropical Cyclone Chido. With millions requiring assistance and many facing critical food challenges, the situation necessitates urgent and sustained humanitarian intervention to address both immediate needs and long-term recovery efforts. The complexities of the crisis underscore the importance of coordinated responses from both national and international stakeholders to alleviate suffering and restore stability in the region.

Original Source: reliefweb.int