Mozambique: Access Snapshot - Cabo Delgado Province, as of 31 January 2025

In January, humanitarian access in Cabo Delgado remained severely restricted due to attacks by non-State armed groups (NSAGs) and physical obstructions due to the impact of Tropical Cyclone Chido. Violence against civilians and armed clashes intensified, particularly in the districts of Macomia, Meluco, Mocímboa da Praia, and Muidumbe, leading to the displacement of 4,730 people from rural areas to district capitals and further hindering relief efforts. During this period, 35 people were killed, while 77 people, including women and children were abducted. Widespread looting by non-State armed groups (NSAGs) further compromised access to those in need. In Pundanhar (Palma district), two NSAG attacks resulted in the deaths of three civilians, extensive looting of properties and businesses, and the suspension of health services in the border village. In the districts of Ancuabe, Mecufi and Metuge, the widespread damage to road networks and infrastructure wrought by Tropical Cyclone Chido further disrupted the provision of assistance as roads became impassable.

Armed clashes between non-State armed groups (NSAGs) and security forces further fueled instability, particularly in Macomia, Palma, and Mocímboa da Praia. NSAGs employed a dual strategy toward communities, combining coercion with a "hearts-and-minds" approach—engaging in non-violent activities such as purchasing food, preparing meals, and holding religious gatherings in areas like Macomia and Quissanga. At the same time, acts of violence persisted, including the beheading of two people in Meluco. Additionally, a controlled detonation of an improvised explosive device (IED) by security forces in Mucojo underscored ongoing security concerns, highlighting the risks of movement along Macomia’s coastal areas.

Post-election demonstrations in Ancuabe, Chiúre and Metuge disrupted key transport routes, delaying humanitarian deliveries. In Metuge, Chiure, and Ancuabe demonstrations severely disrupted key transport routes and caused delays in humanitarian deliveries. Wide destruction of humanitarian supplies and assets and the targeted attacks of humanitarian workers and partners (UN and NGOs) including blocking of partners in some villages impacted first line response capacity. INGOs reported 12 security incidents, including the destruction of facilities in Chiure and Pemba, attacks on humanitarian personnel in Chiure and Mueda, and community-driven refusals of assistance.

Humanitarian actors face declining acceptance among populations affected by conflict and natural disasters due to inadequate assistance and perceived alignment with government. Rising political tensions further complicated access, with increasing distrust toward humanitarian organizations in Ancuabe, Metuge, and Chiure. Some protests escalated into direct threats, on 14 January, armed individuals in Ancuabe blocked a road and threatened to burn an humanitarian vehicle. A study by the Humanitarian Access Working Group (HAWG) in January 2025 highlighted grievances over inadequate and unequal distribution of humanitarian assistance exacerbated by perceived alignment with the government. Local administrations and community leaders' interference in aid distribution further complicates efforts, undermining neutrality and effectiveness. Intensive community acceptance and community engagement would be required to regain trust with the communities.