The UNHCR Regional Update covers key developments in Southern Africa, including the impacts of Cyclone Chido on Mozambique, ongoing violence in the DRC, post-election unrest in Mozambique, and efforts to improve refugee registration and support in Angola and Namibia. A meeting was held to improve coordination among Member States in managing challenges faced by refugees and migrants.
The UNHCR Regional Update for Southern Africa (October – December 2024) highlights significant events affecting communities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and surrounding nations. Key issues include the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, which affected Mozambique, as well as ongoing violence in the DRC and political unrest in Mozambique post-elections. Efforts for refugee registration and support have been made in Angola, Namibia, and other countries in the region, enhancing protection and self-reliance for displaced individuals.
Tropical Cyclone Chido impacted northern Mozambique on December 15, bringing destructive rains and winds to Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa provinces. The cyclone affected over 453,000 people, causing housing destruction and infrastructure damage while complicating the situation for approximately 300,000 displaced individuals already in the region. Additionally, significant harm was reported in the Comoros and Malawi, adding to the devastation.
In the DRC, armed conflict remains rampant, particularly in North and South Kivu provinces, leading to pervasive violence and human rights abuses against civilians. The UN peacekeeping mandate for the DRC has been renewed for 2025 amid increasing mass displacements. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Mission’s mandate has also been extended for another year, reflecting the ongoing crisis.
The unstable security situation in Mozambique escalated following the presidential election on December 9, leading to protests and widespread unrest. As a result, thousands sought refuge in neighboring countries. By December’s end, over 1,100 asylum-seekers, including more than 600 children, were registered in Malawi. Furthermore, about 950 individuals were housed at the Malindza Refugee Reception Centre in Eswatini.
In December, a meeting convened by SADC and UNHCR brought together government officials from Southern Africa to strategize on collective action for addressing refugee and migrant challenges. Discussions focused on enhancing cooperation among Member States to improve protection, streamline migration and asylum processes, and establish systems for regular data sharing.
The UNHCR Regional Update outlines critical humanitarian challenges in Southern Africa, notably the devastating impacts of Cyclone Chido, ongoing violence in the DRC, and political unrest in Mozambique. The report stresses the importance of regional collaboration to address refugee crises and strengthen protections for displaced individuals, alongside improving registration and securing opportunities for education and vocational training.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
