The World Health Organization (WHO), through the Health Cluster — a unit that coordinates emergency support efforts across multiple countries — has announced that it requires $21.5 million to assist nearly 539,000 people affected by the recent rains that struck southern and central Mozambique.
“Mozambique continues to face a complex humanitarian crisis, characterized by the combined impacts of climate shocks and armed conflict, which significantly affect the health and well-being of the most vulnerable populations,” states the Health Cluster report, cited by Lusa.
According to the document, flooding recorded in 2026 across the country’s central and southern provinces led to population displacement, damage to health infrastructure, and an increased risk of waterborne disease outbreaks, compromising the continuity of essential services.
The report explains that approximately 619,627 people affected by extreme weather events require humanitarian assistance. In this context, a flood response plan has been launched to support nearly 539,000 people, with an estimated funding requirement of around $21.5 million.
The government recently announced the deactivation of the “red alert” that had been in effect since January 16.
“For the addendum to the 2026 Flood Response Humanitarian Plan, the Health Cluster will address three strategic objectives. Based on these objectives, 15 indicators will be monitored, reflecting activities expected to reach a total of 538,725 beneficiaries by the end of the year across 18 districts in the provinces of Gaza, Sofala, and Maputo, as well as Maputo City,” the report explains.
In addition to the climate crisis, the international humanitarian organization warns that Mozambique continues to face armed insecurity in the northern province of Cabo Delgado, a situation that continues to drive population displacement and place additional strain on an already fragile healthcare system.
According to the report, humanitarian needs in Cabo Delgado remain high, with priority given to the provision of primary healthcare, emergency services, mental health support, and assistance to displaced populations and host communities.
“In this context, partners have maintained a coordinated response to ensure the delivery of essential health services, with a focus on integrated approaches, including mobile clinics, outbreak response, sexual and reproductive health services, water, sanitation, and hygiene interventions,” the document states.
However, the organization warns that significant challenges remain, particularly regarding access and resource availability, as well as the need to strengthen crisis monitoring and reporting mechanisms.
According to data from the National Institute for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction (INGD), the most recent rainy season caused 289 deaths in Mozambique and affected more than one million people.
Source: Diário Económico
