APO
Mozambique: Violence and extreme weather hold back medical care for thousands
Health centers and health workers have had a difficult year in Mozambique.
The health system has been the double victim of Cyclone Kenneth and a large-scale outbreak of violence that has led to the flight of health workers and the destruction of more health facilities. That includes facilities that were rehabilitated after being damaged by the cyclone.
According to an assessment by ICRC health experts, 39 of the 55 health facilities, or 71% of them, in nine conflict-affected Cabo Delgado districts are not operational. In addition, 686 health professionals have left their workplaces due to insecurity.
Violence and lack of medical care have forced more than 500,000 people to flee their homes in the Cabo Delgado region. Other health facilities have had to take over.
“We are seeing displaced people from the district of Moeda, Medumbe, Macomia, almost the entire northern area. And so the number of illnesses has increased significantly, ”said Rodrigo Armanda, director of the Mahate Health Center.
The ICRC is helping victims of the armed conflict who have been displaced from their homes, including opening a COVID-19 treatment center and helping residents prevent transmission of the disease through masks and hygiene.
President Peter Maurer of the International Committee of the Red Cross is visiting the region to meet those in need and learn about ICRC programs. He will also meet with the President of the Republic of Mozambique, HE Felipe Jacinto Nyusi, on Monday.
“The people of Mozambique today face a triple humanitarian crisis with persistent threats due to climate change, increased violence, the COVID-19 pandemic and cholera. We stand by Mozambique’s side in these difficult times and will increase our support, ”said President Maurer.
In 2021, the ICRC will rehabilitate nine primary health care facilities serving more than 175,400 patients in Pemba and support the Montepuez and Pemba hospitals specialized in treating traumatic wounds.
