YAOUNDÉ, Cameroon – A devastating cyclone has claimed at least 75 lives and left hundreds injured across Mozambique, prompting urgent calls for international aid from local leaders grappling with the aftermath of Cyclone Chido.
Bishop Antonio Juliasse Ferreira Sandramo of Cabo Delgado, the region hardest hit by the cyclone, has issued a heartfelt plea for support, stating, "The sadness of war has now been compounded by the sadness of tropical cyclone Chido," referring to the region's long-standing trauma from conflict and instability.
The cyclone made landfall on December 15, 2023, and its destruction has been widespread, with reports indicating over 600 injuries and around 80 percent of homes demolished across several districts, particularly within the provinces of Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa. The storm caused significant destruction as many homes were constructed from fragile materials, like mud and sticks, rendering them particularly vulnerable to such catastrophic weather events.
"We have seen close to 50 churches, from parish headquarters to local community churches, either destroyed or severely damaged," Ferreira explained, highlighting the extensive impact on community resources. Schools, too, suffered heavily, with roofs blown off and buildings becoming unsafe for use.
The aftermath of the storm has left many without access to basic necessities, including clean drinking water; as Ferreira noted, "If there’s no power, there’s no drinking water supply." He reported widespread failures of power and communication infrastructure, emphasizing how vast areas—like Pemba and Namuno—now face dire challenges, adding to the grief of communities already suffering from conflict and poverty.
Sister Jane Kimathi of the Pan African Theology and Pastoral Network echoed these sentiments as she expressed solidarity with the affected residents. Reflecting on the Christmas season, she said, "Our hearts are heavy with the knowledge of the immense challenges faced by the people of Mozambique following Cyclone Chido. The destruction of homes, schools, and health facilities, as well as the loss of over 50 churches, creates painful realities for so many. Yet, the Church remains a steadfast source of hope and strength for the people.”
The international response is gradually mobilizing. The National Conference of Bishops of Brazil (CNBB), along with Caritas Brasileira, has launched the ‘SOS Mozambique’ campaign aimed at generating emergency funds to help those impacted, seeking to provide immediate humanitarian aid. Ferreira praised these efforts, stating, "I thank you in advance for any kind of support ... to aid those who have lost everything, who now find themselves homeless and without basic resources like food and water.”
The impact of Cyclone Chido is compounded by past natural disasters, with the region still reeling from Cyclone Kenneth, which left nearly 2.5 million vulnerable just a few years ago. This raises concerns about the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters linked to climate change, which disproportionately affect already vulnerable populations like those in Mozambique.
Immediate humanitarian aid is criticized as being insufficient compared to the magnitude of the disaster. Both local leaders and organizations like the Pan African Theology and Pastoral Network stress the importance of not just providing relief, but building resilience to withstand future storms.
Kimathi closed with a moment of hope, stating, "Let this Christmas season inspire us all to take action … through prayer and practical support, we can help Mozambique recover and emerge from this tragedy with renewed strength and resilience." This call resonates strongly with local communities yearning for solidarity amid suffering.
With extensive infrastructure decimated, community leaders and humanitarian agencies stress the need for continued support to rebuild both physical structures and community spirit. Only then can the people of Mozambique begin to envision life beyond the remnants of Cyclone Chido, finding ways to restore hope and stability.
