The armed conflict in Cabo Delgado continues to exact a toll on civilians and civilian infrastructure. Humanitarian consequences linked to displacement, the destruction of infrastructure and loss of livelihoods continue. While about 834,000 people are still internally displaced, a total of 1 million people are extremely vulnerable due the impact of the conflict. Moreover, 420,000 people have returned to their places of origin across the province but find themselves similarly vulnerable to those still internally displaced. They face critical needs for livelihoods, shelter, water, food, and other emergency support.
In May 2023, the ICRC opened its new office in Mueda to bring humanitarian assistance to people affected by the armed conflict in the north of Cabo Delgado and to develop a sustained humanitarian dialogue with weapon bearers there.
Across the province, in the first half of 2023, the ICRC, in collaboration with the Mozambican Red Cross (CVM), provided emergency assistance and livelihood support to help internally displaced people (IDPs) and returnees improve their living conditions. ICRC’s systemic approach also helped provide access to healthcare and safe drinking water via the rehabilitation of health structures and water supply networks, benefitting both displaced and host communities.
To promote respect and support of international humanitarian law (IHL), the ICRC engaged with the Mozambican and other defence and security forces, judiciary, governmental authorities, parliamentarians, academics and religious circles, as well as with the National Commission of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law. Visits to detainees were carried out in seven prisons and we helped to locate and reunite families separated by the conflict, as well as maintained a protection helpline to support them.
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