Cyclone Chido has left a devastating impact on Mozambique, claiming 94 lives and injuring 768 people since it made landfall last week, according to the National Institute of Risk and Disaster Management (INGD).
Over 622,000 people have been affected by the cyclone’s destruction.
The cyclone, which struck Mozambique on December 15 with winds reaching 260 km/h (160 mph) and 250mm of rainfall within the first 24 hours, first caused damage in the French Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte before advancing to Mozambique, Malawi, and Zimbabwe.
In Mozambique, Chido primarily hit the northern provinces, including Cabo Delgado, Niassa, and Nampula—regions frequently vulnerable to such extreme weather events.
The INGD reported severe disruptions in education and healthcare services. More than 109,000 students have been affected due to extensive damage to school infrastructure. Additionally, 52 health facilities were damaged, further limiting access to essential healthcare, especially in already underserved regions.
Daniel Chapo, a leader of Mozambique’s ruling party, emphasized the government’s commitment to mobilizing support at all levels. During a visit to Cabo Delgado, one of the worst-hit regions, Chapo highlighted ongoing collaborative efforts between the government and INGD to assist affected communities in Mecúfi, Nampula, Memba, and Niassa in rebuilding their lives.
