In Mozambique, 42 critical incidents occurred during February 16-28, resulting in 84 deaths and 1,233 arrests. Human & Social crises accounted for 42.86% of the total incident pool, largely as a result of ongoing adverse weather conditions. At least 47 people died from malaria in Nampula province since the beginning of the year. The victims were among 184,778 malaria cases recorded in the province since January – a situation that has worsened due to heavy rainfall.

Inclement weather, particularly affecting the northern provinces since the beginning of the current rainy season in October 2017, has resulted in 50 deaths. Storms have destroyed thousands of houses as well as socio-economic infrastructure, such as health centers, power and water systems, and transportation networks. Hostile weather is beginning to impact upon southern regions, with flooding reported in Maputo, Matola and Beira.

President Filipe Nyusi met RENAMO leader, Afonso Dhlakama, to discuss disarmament and other military concerns. Details of the meeting have not yet been made public as negotiations remain ongoing. This is a positive step for Mozambique’s reconciliation efforts, with resolution likely to achieved this year. Read more in our Mozambique bi-weekly report.