Floods in Mozambique - Search and Rescue Intensifies as Authorities Warn of Even Harder Days
By Alvaro Malamba, Communications and Advocacy Coordinator
With 643,331 people affected—equivalent to 122,420 families—105 deaths, and 97 injuries, according to the latest update from the Mozambique National Institute of Disaster Management, search and rescue operations are intensifying as continued rainfall is likely to worsen flooding in southern Mozambique.
More than half of those affected approximately 330,000 people are in Gaza Province, where the most urgent needs include shelter, food, and basic hygiene.
Search and rescue efforts are being hampered by cut-off roads, disrupted communications, and damaged energy infrastructure, following the destruction of networks and electricity towers.
In the midst of the unfolding tragedy, Monica and her family are a portrait of sacrifice thousands of families in the provinces of Gaza and Maputo have been forced to deal with the last couple of days.
Monica and her family lost nearly all their belongings, prioritising survival over material possessions. Haunted by memories of previous floods, they sought refuge in an accommodation centre. There, Monica carefully sews her grandson António’s only pair of shorts—a simple yet powerful gesture that symbolises resilience and the protection of children in situations of extreme vulnerability.
"We didn’t have much time to gather our things. The most important thing was to save our lives and, thank God, we are all safe," Monica says.
Daily life in the centre is marked by scarcity and uncertainty regarding the follow-up of aid operations. Monica explains her grandson's situation: "These are the only shorts he has. He has been wearing them since we arrived at this centre, so they are torn and dirty. The most I can do is sew them, as I have no way of washing them while the rain continues."
As the grandmother joins the fabric together, stitch by stitch, António finds what comfort he can in her lap, waiting for brighter days.
World Vision continues to work with the Government and partners to monitor needs and mobilise resources, and it's using its prepositioned relief stock composed of 500 kits for immediate assistance.
World Vision's response plan will target 75 000 people, and it's estimated at 1.5 million US Dollars to address immediate needs related to protection, essential household items, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), and food security, while promoting dignity, safety, and community participation.