By : Lloyd Mahachi 

 

Multiple reports of violence and unrest have emerged from Mozambique following the country’s recent elections. The situation has deteriorated, with thousands of people fleeing to neighboring Malawi.

 

A dozen people who recently arrived in Malawi shared their stories. They described how they had made the 30-mile journey with just the clothes on their backs and no food or possessions.

 

Manase Madia, a 50-year-old Mozambican, showed his identity card, which was once a symbol of pride. However, he is now unsure what the future holds. Madia witnessed houses being burned down and shops looted, including his own.

 

The violence in Mozambique began after the October elections, which saw Daniel Chapo, the candidate for the ruling Frelimo party, declared the winner. Protests and violent uprisings have continued, with opposition supporters disputing the election results.

 

In December, Mozambique’s constitutional council upheld the earlier decision, sparking fresh violence. Initially, political members were targeted, but the protests have since escalated into criminality and looting.

 

Businesspeople and those who are well-off, like Madia, are being targeted by marauding gangs. Madia hid in the bush after being tipped off that he was a target. He managed to escape with his wife and one of his 12 children.

 

Madia’s shop was destroyed, and his goats and sheep were stolen. He knows of many people in his hometown of Morrumbala who are still hiding in the bush, unsure of how to travel to safety.

 

The situation in Malawi is also dire, with the country battling one of the worst food shortages in its history. A severe drought has affected crops, and the president has declared a state of disaster.

 

Despite the challenges, Malawians have been welcoming the refugees, with whom many share a language. The district council, with support from Malawi’s Department of Disaster Management Affairs and charities, is erecting tents to host the thousands of refugees.

 

At one of the centers, Judith Fukizi, who works for Restoring Family Links, an International Red Cross initiative, is helping to locate members of the same family who have become separated or fled to different areas.

 

Fukizi says many people have approached her, seeking help to find their relatives. Some were attacked at night and don’t know where their relatives fled. It’s mostly children being separated from their parents.

 

The decision of who joins who lies with the people. Some just want to know the welfare and whereabouts of their loved ones. Fukizi is working tirelessly to reunite families and provide support to those affected.

 

Hilda Katema Kausiwa, operations manager in the refugee department at Malawi’s Ministry of Homeland Security, says they are carrying out a joint assessment with UN agencies and the International Red Cross.

 

The assessment aims to address issues of hygiene and sanitation, as well as health concerns. Kausiwa says they have seen malnourished children and are working with stakeholders to enhance health-screening and ensure access to health facilities.

 

About 46 hectares of land have been granted to build a settlement and facilities for the refugees. UNHCR, the Red Cross, and other organizations have sent tents. Kausiwa commended the chiefs and local people who had generously received the refugees.

 

As the population continues to grow, Kausiwa emphasized the need for continued support. The food is inadequate, and additional resources are required to meet the needs of the population.

 

Kausiwa appealed for continued monitoring of the points of entry to enhance security. They are also planning for public health emergencies, such as mpox.

 

Mike Dansa, chair of Nsanje civil society organizations, says they are engaged in humanitarian aid, disaster response, food security, and health initiatives. The influx of asylum seekers is putting significant pressure on local resources and services.

 

Dansa advocated for comprehensive support that addresses not only the basic needs of displaced individuals but also the well-being of the host communities. The situation highlights the critical need for strengthened humanitarian systems, increased resource allocation, and sustainable interventions.

 

The international community must provide support to address the immediate and long-term impacts of displacement. The situation in Malawi and Mozambique requires urgent attention to ensure the safety and well-being of those affected.

Editor : Josephine Mahachi