The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has sounded the alarm on a dire humanitarian situation in Mozambique Cabo Delgado Province, where more than 110,000 people have been displaced since December 22 due to escalating violence perpetrated by non-state armed groups. This surge in displacement marks the second-largest wave since the conflict began in 2017, underscoring the deepening crisis in the region.
Communities in Cabo Delgado are reeling from relentless attacks, with affected individuals forced to flee their homes under harrowing circumstances. The testimony of Carlota, a displaced woman, reflects the widespread fear and desperation gripping the region as families abandon everything to seek safety.
In response to the escalating crisis, IOM has mobilized efforts to provide essential aid to over 22,000 displaced individuals, offering crucial support such as shelter, healthcare, and mental health services. However, the scale of the crisis continues to outpace available resources, leaving thousands vulnerable, especially women, children, and the elderly.
Dr. Laura Tomm-Bonde, IOM Mozambique Chief of Mission, emphasized the organization’s unwavering commitment to assisting those affected. Yet, dwindling resources pose a significant challenge, jeopardizing the delivery of essential services to vulnerable populations.
The funding shortfall, with only 15 percent of the required $43 million secured under the Humanitarian Response Plan 2024, exacerbates the crisis, heightening the risk of unmet needs. Urgent action is needed to address this gap and ensure the continuation of critical services for displaced communities.
Despite efforts to provide emergency assistance, the demand for aid far exceeds available resources, underscoring the pressing need for collective action to alleviate the suffering of displaced populations in Mozambique. IOM emphasized the importance of addressing root causes and promoting sustainable peace and development to tackle the ongoing violence in the region.
As Mozambique grapples with a daunting humanitarian emergency, IOM called on the international community to respond swiftly and comprehensively to alleviate the suffering of the displaced and work towards sustainable solutions to the protracted violence that has plagued the region for years.