Cyclone Jude Devastates Mozambique, Affecting Thousands of Children

Cyclone Jude has ravaged northern Mozambique, affecting around 20,000 children by destroying schools and damaging thousands of homes. Approximately 747,000 individuals have been impacted. The cyclone exacerbates the risk of waterborne diseases and follows earlier disruptions from Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi. UNICEF reports urgent needs in response to this humanitarian crisis.

In Mozambique, Cyclone Jude has recently struck, causing significant destruction and hindering educational access for approximately 20,000 children. Preliminary assessments indicate that over 20,000 homes were also damaged, impacting an estimated 747,000 individuals, half of whom are children, with the cyclone affecting the northern provinces of Nampula, Niassa, and Zambezia.

On March 10, Cyclone Jude unleashed winds reaching 195 km/h, coupled with heavy rainfall. The cyclone inflicted considerable damage on vital infrastructure, including roads, water and electricity systems, as well as health facilities and educational institutions. Reports from UNICEF highlight that 17,000 children have lost their educational opportunities, a figure that is expected to rise as the situation develops.

Furthermore, the severe flooding resulting from the cyclone increases the risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera and diarrhoea, both threatening to compromise children’s health. Additionally, the destruction of major roadways hampers the distribution of essential goods. This disaster comes on the heels of the damage already inflicted by tropical cyclones Chido and Dikeledi, which had previously affected over 730,000 Mozambicans and destroyed extensive housing and educational resources.

Mary Louise Eagleton, the UNICEF Representative in Mozambique, commented on the dire situation, saying, “The impact of Cyclone Jude on hundreds of thousands of children and families already affected by Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi is devastating. Extreme winds and heavy rains have destroyed critical infrastructure and are depriving vulnerable children of essential services.” She noted that while UNICEF is collaborating with governmental and non-governmental partners to address these urgent needs, the organization is in need of additional resources due to the cumulative effects of the recent cyclones.

In summary, Cyclone Jude has severely impacted Mozambique, depriving around 20,000 children of education amidst extensive destruction to infrastructure. This cyclone builds on the devastation caused by earlier tropical cyclones, presenting a critical public health challenge with increased risks of waterborne diseases. Urgent support and resources are essential to aid those affected, particularly vulnerable children who rely on access to education and essential services.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com