Northern Mozambique is once again in crisis as armed violence intensifies in the gas-rich province of Cabo Delgado. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), nearly 22,000 people were forced to flee their homes in just one week, marking one of the sharpest surges in displacement this year.
The wave of violence, driven by ongoing clashes between insurgents and government forces, has reignited fears of instability in a region still recovering from previous attacks. Many of those fleeing are women and children, seeking refuge in overcrowded temporary shelters and host communities already stretched to their limits.
“Families are fleeing with nothing but the clothes on their backs,” said a UNHCR field officer in Pemba. “Many have witnessed brutal attacks, lost their homes, and are now in desperate need of food, water, and medical care.”
A Region Under Siege
Cabo Delgado, home to one of Africa’s largest natural gas reserves, has been a hotspot of insurgent activity since 2017. The conflict—rooted in a mix of poverty, marginalization, and extremist influence—has displaced more than one million people to date. Despite military assistance from regional forces, sporadic attacks continue to destabilize northern districts such as Macomia, Mocímboa da Praia, and Palma.
Observers say the recent surge in violence could threaten the fragile gains made in resettlement and reconstruction. Humanitarian groups have expressed concern that renewed insecurity may disrupt education, health services, and ongoing infrastructure projects vital to the province’s recovery.
Humanitarian Response and Strain
The humanitarian community has mobilized emergency aid, but resources remain critically low. UN agencies are calling for increased international funding to provide shelter materials, sanitation facilities, and psychological support for those traumatized by the violence.
In many displacement sites, food shortages and limited access to clean water have compounded the crisis. Local health authorities warn of rising cases of malaria and cholera as families crowd into makeshift camps.
“We are running out of supplies,” said a representative from the Mozambican Red Cross. “Without sustained support, this crisis could spiral beyond control.”
Economic and Regional Implications
Beyond the human toll, the resurgence of violence threatens Mozambique’s ambitions to become a key player in global energy exports. Multinational projects—such as TotalEnergies’ liquefied natural gas (LNG) venture—remain on hold amid security concerns. Analysts warn that continued instability could deter investors and undermine regional growth.
Neighboring countries, including Tanzania and Malawi, are also monitoring the situation closely as displaced families move toward their borders seeking safety.
A Call for Stability
Mozambique’s government, with support from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and Rwanda, has pledged to restore peace through coordinated military operations and community stabilization programs. However, experts stress that lasting peace will depend not only on security measures but also on addressing the deep socioeconomic inequalities that fuel recruitment and resentment.
As Cabo Delgado’s residents endure yet another cycle of displacement and uncertainty, the international community faces a familiar question: will the world act quickly enough to prevent a worsening humanitarian catastrophe?
