An IPC report reveals that about 3.3 million Mozambicans might experience food insecurity by March 2025, largely due to climate shocks and armed conflict. Projections indicate an increase in those needing urgent assistance, with 773,000 in an emergency situation. Ongoing violence in Cabo Delgado and the effects of climate change exacerbate this crisis, necessitating significant international aid to prevent widespread hunger.
The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report suggests that around 3.3 million Mozambicans may struggle with food insecurity by March 2025. The report, accessed by Lusa, indicates a rise in those needing urgent assistance, increasing from 2.79 million in October 2024 to approximately 3.28 million.
Approximately 773,000 individuals are projected to encounter an ‘emergency’ situation due to dwindling food supplies and the ongoing impact of armed conflict in Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa. The adverse effects of climate phenomena such as La Niña are expected, particularly in southern and central regions.
The IPC report, developed by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), notes that all provinces will face food insecurity challenges, with particular concern for Gaza, Inhambane, Manica, Tete, and Cabo Delgado, which has been experiencing an insurgency since 2017 linked to the Islamic State.
The districts of Macomia and Quissanga, severely affected by terrorist assaults, have seen the conflict escalate, limiting humanitarian aid access. The last significant attack occurred on May 10-11, 2024, in Macomia, resulting in numerous fatalities and extended combat between armed groups and military forces.
Mozambique is heavily impacted by climate change, leading to frequent floods and tropical cyclones during the rainy season (October to April) and persistent drought periods. The UN reports that food insecurity exacerbated by El Niño may endanger nearly five million people, reflecting a dire funding situation for adequate support.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) warns that food insecurity has reached unprecedented levels, threatening 4,890,232 individuals by the end of the current agricultural campaign in March 2025. A 2024 appeal for $222 million in international assistance highlights a significant funding deficit, as only $28.7 million has been raised so far.
The situation in Mozambique regarding food insecurity is critical, with projections indicating that around 3.3 million people may face acute food shortages by early 2025 due to climatic shocks and conflict. Immediate international support is necessary to address this urgent issue, as existing resources fall significantly short of what is needed. A concerted effort is required to combat worsening food insecurity, especially in the context of ongoing violence and climate challenges, to improve the livelihoods of millions affected.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
