The UN has voiced deep alarm over the growing number of civilians escaping violence across northern Mozambique, revealing that escalating attacks have forced roughly 300,000 people from their homes in recent months.
The surge in displacement stems from the jihadist insurgency tormenting Cabo Delgado, a conflict that has already claimed more than 6,200 lives, with unrest extending into Nampula province.
On Tuesday, the United Nations Refugee Agency reported that nearly 100,000 residents fled the area within just two weeks, reflecting the rapid deterioration of security.
UNHCR representative Xavier Creach noted that at least 287,000 individuals have been uprooted in the last quarter, though he stressed that the official tally captures only those formally registered, meaning countless others remain uncounted. He explained that the conflict’s expansion into previously stable districts has severely complicated relief efforts.
The UN described the humanitarian situation as increasingly strained, with support falling far short of what is required. UNHCR emphasized that the current crisis demands immediate international backing to ease the pressure on aid workers and address the mounting needs.
Since hostilities began in 2017, more than 1.3 million Mozambicans have been displaced, underscoring the scale of the humanitarian emergency.
What you should know
Northern Mozambique is facing a worsening humanitarian crisis as intensified insurgent attacks trigger mass displacement.
The UN warns that nearly 300,000 people have fled since July, stretching aid operations beyond capacity.
Violence is spreading to previously safe areas, and relief agencies say emergency international assistance is urgently needed to support affected communities.
