Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Mozambique, Victor Matemadanda, has advised Zimbabweans planning to travel to the neighbouring country to delay their trips until the flooding and emergency operations have eased.
Mozambique is experiencing one of the worst floods in its recent history, with more than 600,000 people affected and over 300,000 displaced, particularly in Gaza, Maputo and Sofala provinces.
Relief efforts are underway but are being severely disrupted by damaged infrastructure and limited access to affected areas.
Although rainfall has reduced, the risk of flooding downstream remains high because the ground is already saturated and river levels are still elevated.
Matemadanda said many Zimbabweans have been affected by the flooding in Mozambique.
“We are urging Zimbabweans to hold off on any business activities related to our neighbouring country until the situation stabilises.
“Although I don’t have specific numbers, it’s clear that many Zimbabweans have been caught up in the adverse conditions, particularly along the Chokwe-Chicualacuala Road, a route commonly used by Zimbabwean travellers.
“The vehicles I know of that travel to Zimbabwe were either in Maputo or Harare.
“The issue mainly affected those who had come to place orders in Mozambique, as they were unable to drive back home.
“I have heard that even the drivers had to fly back, and of course, not many can afford flights via South Africa to connect to Harare.
“So, it is clear that many people who had come are still in Mozambique.”
