As thousands flee northern Mozambique amidst escalating violence, the humanitarian situation in Cabo Delgado province has reached critical levels. Recent reports indicate over 50,000 people have been forced from their homes since August 2025, marking the largest displacement wave in the region since early 2024.
Recent displacement patterns
The mass exodus from northern Mozambique’s conflict zones has intensified, with families undertaking dangerous journeys on foot to reach safety. Most displaced persons have sought refuge in makeshift camps around Chiure town, where humanitarian organisations struggle to provide basic necessities.
The International Organisation for Migration has documented at least 20,181 newly displaced individuals, though actual numbers are likely higher as many movements remain unrecorded.
Causes of displacement
Non-state armed groups have intensified their operations across multiple districts, including:
- Ancuabe
- Balama
- Chiúre
- Macomia
- Mocímboa da Praia
- Montepuez
Violence has spilled over into neighboring Nampula province, where attacks have destroyed essential infrastructure and resulted in civilian casualties.
Humanitarian challenges
As thousands continue to flee northern Mozambique’s conflict zones, aid organizations face severe funding constraints. The humanitarian response plan has received only 19% of its required $352 million budget, forcing dramatic reductions in assistance targets.
Key challenges include:
- Limited access to healthcare
- Insufficient food and water supplies
- Inadequate shelter facilities
- Growing protection concerns
International response
Emergency response efforts are underway in temporary resettlement centers, led by organisations like Doctors Without Borders. However, the scale of displacement has overwhelmed available resources, with aid agencies now only able to assist 317,000 people instead of the planned 1.1 million.
Future outlook
The situation for those fleeing northern Mozambique remains precarious, with continued violence threatening further displacement. Without increased international support and funding, humanitarian organisations warn of potentially catastrophic consequences for displaced populations.
