A devastating cyclone in Mozambique has displaced 2,155 people, destroyed homes, and severely disrupted essential services. Bishop Vera recounts the extensive damage, especially to chapels and schools, highlighting ongoing recovery needs.
In Mozambique, a recent cyclone caused severe devastation, affecting 2,155 individuals from 380 families, with one fatality and 18 injuries reported by World Vision Mozambique. The cyclone’s intense winds and heavy rains completely destroyed 380 homes and partially damaged an additional 28, leaving numerous families homeless.
The cyclone’s effects extended beyond residential areas, causing considerable damage to critical infrastructure. Twenty-four health facilities were impacted, impeding access to vital medical services. The education sector faced disruptions as well, with 27 schools damaged, affecting 2,266 students and 158 teachers.
Bishop Vera of the Diocese of Nacala shared his experiences of the devastation in a message to ACN, describing hours of terror along the coastline as the cyclone stripped roofs from many chapels, schools, and pastoral centers. He remarked, “The destruction is very extensive. Around half of the mud houses in the 10 districts of the Diocese of Nacala were damaged.”
Furthermore, the Bishop detailed the severe weather conditions, stating, “The most terrible thing, in all the districts, was the heavy rains, accompanied by very strong winds, of 100 to 150 kilometres per hour.” He reported that several bridges were destroyed, complicating communication between regions.
The Diocese of Nacala is recurrently affected by cyclones during this time of year. Recently, Cyclone Dikeledi also caused extensive destruction, resulting in many homes and churches being damaged or destroyed, along with widespread power outages. In response, Bishop Vera previously initiated an emergency plan to procure essential building materials for urgent repairs in chapels, schools, and communal buildings.
The cyclone in Mozambique has inflicted significant damage, affecting thousands and disrupting access to critical services. As communities grapple with the aftermath, the resilience demonstrated by the local church and the urgency in addressing immediate needs highlight the ongoing challenges faced by the region. Continued support and intervention will be crucial in aiding recovery and rebuilding efforts.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
