In Mozambique, localized flooding is common during the southern Africa rainy season from October to March. The 2007/2008 season,however, has brought more rainfall and subsequent flooding than is usual. The high level of rainfall, compounded by persistent heavy rains in neighboring countries Zambia and Zimbabwe has led to high water levels in the Zambezi river and its tributaries; especially the Save, Pungue, and Buzi rivers. The government in Mozambique has declared a red alert as some 54,000 have already been evacuated from other parts of the Zambezi River and authorities say nearly 110,000 have lost property and livestock.
Given the already precarious situation in relation to nutrition among young children, the effects of the current flood emergency have the potential to elevate the serious negative implications regarding the nutritional status of children. Therefore, ongoing surveillance of the nutritional status of children under-five is critical. In addition, there is an urgent need to ensure life-saving supplies are procured and distributed to health facilities allowing them to serve the increasing number of patients.
In the affected area, FH is responding by meeting basic needs of the vulnerable people. In partnership with local ministries and other International organizations FH is providing food, health education, and on going relief support.
Last February, as a result of cyclone Favio, FH was able to carry out a similar program. Favio left more than 140,000 people displaced, 250,000 homeless and killed 45 people.
Please pray for the Food for the Hungry staff in Mozambique as they respond to this emergency. Also, please consider donating financially to the Mozambique flooding response by clicking on the where most needed link. Thank you for walking with Food for the Hungry as we respond to disasters and emergencies around the world.
