Displaying items by tag: Eswatini

Thursday, 09 January 2025 20:54

Mozambique: post-election violence, calls for peace

Violence has gripped Mozambique following disputed elections on 9 October; the situation worsened after Daniel Chapo was officially declared president on 23 December. Adding to the feeling of insecurity, on Christmas Day over 1,500 prisoners escaped from a maximum-security prison in Maputo. Violence, deaths, and looting have driven thousands to flee to Malawi and Eswatini, straining resources when those countries are already grappling with drought and poverty - and the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, which devastated the region. In northern Mozambique, ongoing attacks in Cabo Delgado since 2017 have already displaced hundreds of thousands. Refugees face dire conditions in overcrowded shelters, with inadequate food, water, and sanitation, raising the risk of disease. Christian organisations are mediating peace efforts and engaging in prayer: Tearfund has joined their call for dialogue and reconciliation, urging Christians worldwide to pray for peace in Mozambique and relief for the displaced.

Published in Worldwide