A cyclone in Mozambique has devastated communities, affecting over 2,150 people and destroying 380 homes. Essential services, including health facilities and schools, have been severely impacted. Bishop Vera described the experience as a “night of terror” and outlined the extensive damage in the Diocese of Nacala. An emergency response plan is underway to assist affected communities.
A cyclone recently swept through Mozambique, affecting 2,155 individuals from 380 families, as reported by World Vision Mozambique. The devastating storm has resulted in one fatality and 18 injuries, while also causing the complete destruction of 380 homes and partial damage to an additional 28. Many families are now left homeless due to the cyclone’s ferocity.
The cyclone’s impact was not confined to residential areas; essential infrastructure sustained significant damage. According to the reports, 24 health facilities were affected, impeding access to vital medical services. The education sector was also hard-hit, with 27 schools suffering damage and disrupting the education of 2,266 students and the work of 158 educators.
Bishop Vera provided insight into the disaster, describing the experience as one of “terror along the entire coast.” He noted that many chapels, schools, and pastoral centers have lost their roofs. The destruction in the Diocese of Nacala was particularly severe, with half of the mud houses in ten districts experiencing damage.
He lamented the heavy rains and strong winds, which reached speeds of 100 to 150 kilometers per hour, exacerbating the destruction. Critical transportation routes are impacted as several bridges have collapsed, isolating communities such as Nacala-a-Velha and Memba.
The Diocese of Nacala frequently bears the brunt of seasonal cyclones. This January, Cyclone Dikeledi inflicted similar devastation, forcing Bishop Vera to initiate an emergency response that included procuring building materials for essential repairs in various community structures.
Founded in 2019, ACI Africa aims to deliver timely news regarding the Catholic Church across the continent, emphasizing the messages from the Holy Father and the proceedings at the Holy See. The organization provides this information free of charge to promote awareness and foster Catholic culture.
In conclusion, the recent cyclone has wrought significant destruction in Mozambique, affecting thousands and compromising essential services and infrastructure. The response from the Diocese of Nacala highlights the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and community rebuilding. Continued support is crucial for restoring hope and security to the impacted populations in the wake of this disaster.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
