The SADC Emergency Response Team (ERT) continues to work closely with the Government of Mozambique, reaffirming the region’s commitment to solidarity and to a coordinated, government-led humanitarian response that is fully aligned with national priorities and established operational structures.
Particular focus is being placed on Gaza Province, where severe flooding has caused extensive damage, widespread displacement and urgent humanitarian needs. In this context, the arrival of Brigadier General Chere Makhetha, the Chief of Staff at the SADC Secretariat, further strengthens SADC’s regional engagement.
Brigadier General Makhetha will provide overall technical oversight for the SADC ERT team and strategic liaison with the Government of Mozambique, ensuring coherence between national efforts and regional response mechanisms.
The SADC intervention is being implemented in close collaboration with the National Institute for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction (INGD), relevant line ministries, and a broad range of humanitarian partners operating on the ground. These collective efforts remain central to saving lives, restoring essential services, and supporting affected communities as Mozambique transitions from emergency response toward recovery, resilience, and long-term stability.
According to the National Disasters Management Institute (INGD), 69 people have died, six persons remain missing, and 74 have been injured. More than 111 000 people are currently evacuated and are being housed in 113 accommodation centres, while almost 750 000 people have been affected across the country. INGD also reports that over 4 000 houses have been destroyed and more than 162 000 houses are flooded.
Tens of thousands of people in Mozambique are being rescued as rising waters continue to devastate the southern African nation – the worst flooding in a generation.
Teams from Brazil, South Africa and the UK have been helping with life-saving rescue operations.
Staff Writer/SADC website