Post-election unrest in Mozambique has forced thousands of people to flee their homes, the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) reported on Monday.
In Malawi, the government has identified around 2,000 who crossed into the country in the past week, the agency stated.
“In neighbouring Eswatini, another 1,000 people have arrived. Amongst the new arrivals are refugees and asylum seekers of various nationalities who have been living in Mozambique. UNHCR is raising concerns over the escalating displacement and its impact on the affected populations.”
Since the violence ensued, about 300 people have reportedly been killed after the main opposition party began protesting alleged fraud in the presidential elections, late October.
The country’s electoral authority declared 47-year-old Daniel Chapo of the ruling Frelimo party the winner of the 9 October presidential elections with 71% of the vote, defeating opposition candidate Venancio Mondlane with 20%.
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“We are deeply alarmed by the ongoing situation in Mozambique, where escalating violence has forced thousands to flee. Refugees and civilians are facing immense risks, losing their livelihoods and relying on humanitarian assistance. While we are grateful for the generosity of Malawi and Eswatini, immediate support is crucial to tackle the worsening crisis and prevent further suffering,” said Chansa Kapaya, UNHCR’s Regional Director for Southern Africa.
According to UNHCR, people in Malawi who fled Mozambique said they escaped attacks and looting in their villages. Many said they walked long distances and crossed the Shire River on foot or by small boats to reach safety.
Among them are pregnant women, the elderly and children who have had little food to eat, the agency pointed out.
In Eswatini, many of the new arrivals reported losing their shops and businesses due to the ongoing violence. UNHCR said the Malindza refugee reception centre, originally designed for 250 people, is now overcrowded, housing over 1,000 people.
Mozambique is still recovering from the devastating effects of Cyclone Chido, which hit just weeks ago. The current political situation is hampering vital humanitarian efforts for communities who lost everything in the storm.
The UN agency also stressed that the situation in both Malawi and Eswatini is becoming critical, with the rising number of refugees and asylum-seekers straining already overstretched resources.
“While UNHCR remains committed to working with local authorities and partners to tackle this emergency, the international community must urgently provide support to host countries and ensure affected populations receive the assistance they desperately need,” it said.
