from ARMANDO DOMINGOS in Maputo, Mozambique
Mozambique Bureau
MAPUTO, (CAJ News) – THE health system is incapable of coping with the displacement of people after a new wave of violence in northern Mozambique.
More than 92 000 people have fled their homes since early September as Islamist groups run riot in the region.
The situation in Cabo Delgado province remains volatile following an upsurge of violence in recent months.
To meet growing needs, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reveals it has expanded activities in the Mueda district and nearby Nanili, focusing on health promotion, mental support and medical referrals for displaced families seeking safety.
“Even if we don’t see many acute medical emergencies at the moment, health needs persist,” said Pedro Basílio, MSF outreach supervisor.
“The local health system is unable to cope with the continuous arrival of people seeking safety, which puts pressure on already stretched resources.”
In late September, following a period of violent attacks in Mocímboa da Praia, MSF temporarily suspended medical activities in this town and district of Cabo Delgado.
These issues are more pressing with the approach of the rainy season, which heightens the risk of waterborne diseases.
In response to growing humanitarian needs, MSF has reinforced activities in Mueda town and district following the recent displacement of people from Mocímboa da Praia, and its continued support to displaced and host communities.
Between October 3 and 15, MSF teams reported reaching 970 families across three camps in Mueda, referring 315 people for urgent medical care and conducting over 400 health awareness sessions that reached more than 4 500 people.
– CAJ News