While global headlines focus on other major conflicts, a devastating humanitarian crisis is quietly unfolding in northern Mozambique. Since 2017, an insurgency by an Islamic State affiliate has plunged the region of Cabo Delgado into brutal chaos, forcing over a million people from their homes – many displaced two, three, or even four times.
The violence has intensified dramatically, becoming deadlier and more widespread. More than 300,000 people have fled their communities since July alone, with a shocking 100,000 uprooted in November. Tragically, civilian deaths are up 56% this year compared to last, with almost 2,800 civilians killed since 2017. Beyond the fatalities, there’s a horrifying rise in child abductions for forced labor, marriage, or to fight, and a growing risk of sexual violence and exploitation, particularly for vulnerable women and children.
Despite significant efforts by the Mozambican army and a large Rwandan troop deployment (now 4,000-5,000 personnel), the conflict rages on. Insurgents are proving “very audacious,” making their furthest incursions yet, and military operations haven’t managed to fully secure the region or truly protect its people. Experts suggest that much of the military focus might be more on safeguarding a multi-billion dollar natural gas project than on ensuring human safety and security.
Meanwhile, international attention and foreign aid are dwindling rapidly. With other global crises dominating the news, Mozambique’s plight is largely ignored, leaving humanitarian organizations with only 55% of the estimated funds needed. Displaced families are forced into dire conditions, often in places with very poor access to basic services like clean water, food, and shelter. They are simply exhausted, longing for the day they can return home, resume farming, and rebuild their lives.
This is a crisis that desperately demands our attention. Beyond the economic potential of the region, it’s about the countless human lives caught in a forgotten war. Dialogue, sustained international support, and effective action focused on human security are desperately needed to bring peace and stability to Mozambique.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/dec/25/displaced-islamic-state-insurgency-mozambique
