Mozambique’s President, Daniel Francisco Chapo, has called for the immediate prioritisation of rescue operations to save lives and prevent further loss of life as floods continue to affect large parts of the country.

Speaking during a meeting with the National Institute for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (INGD) and partner organisations involved in rescue efforts in flood-hit areas of southern and central Mozambique, President Chapo stressed that “the priority is to save lives”.

Earlier on the same day, the Head of State also met representatives of the private sector at his office, within the framework of the Red Alert declared by the government due to intense rainfall and flooding affecting several regions nationwide. During the meeting, President Chapo highlighted the need for coordinated information-sharing and sustained joint action to protect lives.

He warned that the situation remains critical, with significant damage to infrastructure and disruptions along sections of the country’s main north–south highway, the EN1.

According to the INGD, at least 11 people have died in floods since heavy rains began in December last year. Between 21 December and 19 January alone, floods affected 594,601 people, with around 7,000 houses partially or completely destroyed.

Cumulatively, since the start of the current rainy season in October 2025, around 645,000 people have been affected across the country. The disasters have resulted in 103 deaths and three people reported missing.Authorities continue to urge communities in high-risk areas to follow official guidance as rescue and relief operations remain ongoing.