Photo courtesy of Club of Mozambique
Flooding in southern Mozambique continues to place immense pressure on already vulnerable communities, particularly around Xai-Xai and the Limpopo River basin.
Government hospitals in the area remain affected by ongoing nursing strikes, which has led to a significant increase in patients seeking care at our clinic. While the clinic itself has not been directly flooded, access remains difficult due to severe damage to surrounding road infrastructure. Many of the main asphalt roads are badly degraded, with large potholes slowing travel and limiting reliable access.
The situation on major transport routes remains critical. The EN1 highway – Mozambique’s main north-south artery – is still cut near Xai-Xai. Repair work close to the Nguluzane River bridge has been repeatedly delayed due to strong water currents. An alternative inland route briefly reopened earlier this month, but sections of it failed again on 5 February, leaving hundreds of vehicles stranded and severely disrupting the delivery of food, medical supplies, fuel, and other essential goods. Fuel shortages are now widespread in the region.
The broader humanitarian impact is severe. Many families have lost their homes, crops, and remaining food supplies, increasing hunger and vulnerability. The risk of cholera and other water-borne diseases is extremely high, particularly in areas with unsafe drinking water and limited sanitation. Until recently, some communities were still completely isolated and only reachable through rescue operations.
National figures indicate that approximately 185 people have lost their lives as a result of flooding and related disease outbreaks since October. An estimated 845,000 people have been affected across the country, with tens of thousands of homes damaged or destroyed and extensive damage to roads and critical infrastructure.
There are, however, cautious signs of improvement. Water levels in the Limpopo River have begun to fall, and assessments are underway on the elevated road between Chimcumbana and the city of Xai-Xai. While not yet confirmed, there are indications that some damaged road sections may reopen soon, which would significantly improve access for relief efforts and supply deliveries.
We continue to monitor the situation closely and adjust our response as conditions evolve. We are deeply grateful for the ongoing support shown by our community during this challenging time.
Johann
(Aid to Africa)
Doctors For Life International
P.O. Box 6613
Zimbali
4418
South Africa
+27 834582949 (mobile)
+27 (0) 32 481 5550/1/2/3 (office)
+27 (0) 32 481 5554 (fax)
www.doctorsforlife.co.za<http://www.doctorsforlife.co.za>
Www.dfl.org.za<http://Www.dfl.org.za>