The Mozambican government confirmed on Tuesday that over 67,000 people have been displaced from their homes due to recent militant attacks in the northern Cabo Delgado province. Despite the growing humanitarian crisis, the government rejected calls for a state of emergency.
“We are currently dealing with 67,321 displaced individuals,” stated government spokesperson Filimao Suaze during a press conference in the capital, Maputo. He further specified that this number translates to “14,270 families who have sought refuge in Nampula province and other locations.”
However, Suaze emphasized the government’s position, stating, “We do not believe the current situation in Cabo Delgado warrants declaring a state of emergency.”
The recent displacement surge follows renewed violence in the region. According to local reports and figures from the UN migration agency (IOM), attacks in Macomia, Chiure, Mecufi, Mocimboa da Praia, and Muidumbe districts have displaced over 71,000 people between December 2023 and February 2024. Notably, over 30,000 individuals arrived in Namapa town alone between February 21st and 22nd, fleeing by bus, boat, and foot.
“Urgent needs across the hosting communities include food, shelter, basic supplies, medical care, and support services,” reported an IOM spokesperson to AFP.
The ongoing insurgency began in October 2017 when fighters affiliated with the Islamic State group targeted coastal areas in Cabo Delgado, rich in natural gas reserves, near the Tanzanian border. Since July 2021, regional forces from Rwanda and the SADC bloc have aided the Mozambican military in regaining control of parts of the province.
Despite the upcoming withdrawal of the SADC mission in July, Suaze declined to comment, reiterating the government’s commitment to “combating terrorism and ensuring public safety to a degree where the presence or absence of specific forces is inconsequential.” He stressed, “The government is actively addressing the situation.”
Last week, President Filipe Nyusi acknowledged the population displacements but downplayed the threat, insisting security forces are in control. The government also reported establishing temporary emergency shelters for displaced families in the Erati district bordering Cabo Delgado.
The insurgency has claimed nearly 5,000 lives and displaced close to a million people since its inception. With the recent displacement spike, concerns regarding the humanitarian crisis and the government’s ability to manage the situation continue to rise.
