Global Rice News

Fresh violence has erupted in northern Mozambique, leading to a wave of displacement among the local population. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), recent attacks in Makumia, Kiure, and Makofi districts have forced around 13,088 people, including many children, to flee their homes using various means of transportation such as buses, canoes, and even by foot. This situation has created an urgent humanitarian crisis in Cabo Delgado province.

The President of Mozambique, Felipe Nyusi, has acknowledged the new wave of population movements but downplayed the threat, assuring that the security forces have the situation under control. He mentioned that there is a notable number of people migrating from one area to another due to concerns about support. Nyusi also highlighted that terrorist groups are active in the province and attempting to recruit new members, which explains the frequency of these displacement events.

The recent exodus of people from Okoa town, for example, was triggered by retaliatory attacks from the Mozambican and Rwandan armies after foiling an attempt to abduct children. In July 2021, Rwandan and Southern African Development Community (SADC) troops were deployed to Mozambique to assist in combating the long-standing jihadist insurgency. While they have been able to regain some lost territory in Cabo Delgado, the situation remains highly volatile.

In response to the displacement crisis, the National Disaster Management Institute, in coordination with the Nampula Provincial Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jamie Neto, is planning to establish a transit center to accommodate the evacuees. This center will provide temporary shelter, food, and other essential services to those affected by the violence. People are fleeing to various destinations, including the city of Pemba in the north and neighboring Nampula province.

In conclusion, the recent outbreak of violence in northern Mozambique has resulted in the forced displacement of thousands of people, particularly children. The government, together with international assistance, is working to address the urgent humanitarian needs of the affected population. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges in countering the jihadist insurgency in the region and the need for sustained efforts to support the affected communities.

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