Escalating violence in northern Mozambique leading to new wave of displacements, UNHCR warns

The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has expressed concern regarding the significant increase in displaced individuals in northern Mozambique. Since the beginning of this year, ongoing violence in the Cabo Delgado province has led to the displacement of approximately 100,000 individuals. The conflict, which began in 2017, has resulted in over 1.3 million people fleeing the area due to an ongoing Islamist insurgency.

By the end of September, a single week saw the displacement of nearly 22,000 people, marking the largest recorded displacement event in 2023.

All 17 districts in the Cabo Delgado province are currently affected by the conflict. Reports indicate widespread fear due to simultaneous attacks, which include reports of killings, abductions, and sexual violence. Furthermore, there have been accounts of children being forcibly recruited by armed groups.

The worsening security and humanitarian conditions are occurring amidst significant budget reductions. UNHCR's $352 million appeal has garnered less than 20% of its target funding. The agency is urging the international community to extend its support for Mozambique during this crisis.

Based on reporting by Africanews.