Cyclone Jude has severely impacted Mozambique, affecting over 747,000 individuals and cutting off educational access for at least 17,000 children due to the destruction of schools. The cyclone caused extreme flooding and infrastructure damage, increasing health risks and complicating recovery efforts, particularly for those already affected by previous cyclones. UNICEF emphasizes the urgent need for resources to address these escalating challenges.
Recent reports indicate that Cyclone Jude has severely impacted Mozambique, particularly in the northern provinces of Nampula, Niassa, and Zambezia. This cyclone, which brought winds reaching 195 km/h, has resulted in extensive destruction. Approximately 20,000 children are now cut off from educational access, further compounding the crisis as over 747,000 individuals are estimated to be affected by the storm’s aftermath, which includes severe flooding and infrastructural damage.
The cyclone’s destruction has led to significant damage to homes, schools, and essential services. In particular, UNICEF reports that at least 17,000 children currently lack education due to the widespread destruction of schools and facilities. With ongoing severe flooding, there is an increased risk of water-borne diseases such as cholera and diarrhoea, which pose serious health threats to children.
Adding to the tragedy, Cyclone Jude has worsened the situation for many who were already suffering from the earlier impacts of Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi. These previous cyclones had already displaced over 730,000 individuals and resulted in the destruction of 150,000 homes, 471 schools, and 100 health facilities. The cumulative effect has created a critical humanitarian emergency.
Mary Louise Eagleton, UNICEF Representative in Mozambique, stated the dire situation, saying that the impact of Cyclone Jude has been devastating for children and families already grappling with the repercussions of previous cyclones. She emphasized that despite UNICEF’s ongoing efforts with partners to mitigate the impact, the organization is in urgent need of additional resources to effectively respond to this compounded emergency.
The devastation caused by Cyclone Jude has left over 17,000 children without education, compounding the challenges faced after previous cyclones. With urgent needs emerging in terms of education and health, especially regarding the risk of water-borne diseases, it is imperative for organizations like UNICEF to bolster their resources to respond effectively. The situation remains critical as Mozambique navigates the aftermath of multiple cyclones and seeks to restore essential services and support to affected populations.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com