The National Institute for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (INGD) confirmed on Wednesday (15) that cyclone Dikeledi has resulted in five deaths and caused extensive damage to infrastructure in Nampula. The storm, which hit the northern region of Mozambique this week, left a trail of destruction that affected thousands of people and significantly compromised local structures.
Luísa Meque, president of INGD, told the press the details of the impacts: ‘We have confirmed five direct fatalities due to the cyclone – one person lost their life in Mossuril, three in Angoche and one more in Nampula City. In addition, the storm severely damaged our infrastructure, with 2750 homes completely destroyed and 5475 partially damaged.’
The worst affected areas include the districts of Mossuril, Ilha de Moçambique and the city of Nacala Porto, where communities are now facing the challenge of rebuilding. INGD is coordinating efforts with other government agencies and non-governmental organisations to provide immediate aid and assess the most critical damage.
The destruction was not limited to homes. The cyclone also severely impacted public infrastructure, including three health centres and 42 schools, directly affecting the education of hundreds of children. ‘We’re especially worried about the schools, as 95 classrooms were damaged, which interrupts the school year for many students,’ added Meque.
Meteorologist Pedro Modumane, from the National Meteorological Institute (INAM), explained that Dikeledi initially hit the coast as a tropical cyclone, but quickly lost strength and turned into a severe tropical storm. ‘We are still forecasting heavy rainfall of up to 50 millimetres per hour, which could further complicate recovery efforts,’ warned Modumane.
Mozambique, often listed among the countries most vulnerable to climate change, faces growing challenges with cyclones and intense storms. The authorities continue to appeal for international support to strengthen disaster response capacities and improve infrastructure to withstand future storms.
As the aid begins to arrive, local communities are showing resilience and solidarity. Volunteers from various parts of the province come together to help with the clean-up operations and support displaced families, demonstrating the unity of the Mozambican people in the face of adversity.