Headline: Médecins Sans Frontières Concludes Operations in Northern Mozambique Amid Ongoing Humanitarian Needs
Mueda, Mozambique – October 2025 – After four years of dedicated service in Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado province, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) announced the conclusion of its activities in the Mueda, Nangade, and Muidumbe districts. The decision comes as healthcare services regain functionality following a period of intense emergency response to escalating violence that began in 2017. Despite the operational handover, humanitarian needs in the region remain critically high.
In 2021, Cabo Delgado witnessed a surge in violence when militants affiliated with the Islamic State launched a brutal attack on Palma, a coastal town located about 100 kilometers northeast of Mueda. The offensive led to significant civilian casualties and widespread destruction, forcing thousands of residents to flee for safety. MSF quickly mobilized to provide urgent medical assistance to those affected by the violence, treating injuries and addressing emergency needs at makeshift displacement sites throughout the province.
As the conflict forced many people from their homes, Mueda emerged as a refuge for displaced families. This influx presented challenges, as many arrived in dire health after enduring harsh conditions during their flight. MSF deployed mobile clinics and established healthcare support, offering essential services such as emergency medical care, psychological support, and sanitation assistance to help destitute communities.
With the stabilization of the security situation and the gradual return of displaced individuals to their homes, MSF shifted its focus late in 2024 from emergency response to strengthening local healthcare facilities. At Mueda Rural Hospital, the organization provided vital resources including medical supplies, staff training, and technical assistance. This transition aimed to enhance maternity care, paediatric services, and HIV/tuberculosis diagnosis, ensuring sustainable healthcare for affected populations.
In addition to urban settings, MSF’s presence extended to rural health centres in Nangade and Muidumbe, where community health networks were reinforced. Local health workers received training, prioritizing early detection of health issues and continuity of care.
Despite MSF’s recent success in revitalizing healthcare services, the region faced unsettling developments towards the end of 2025. Renewed offensives by Islamic State-linked groups triggered further displacement, leaving thousands in precarious circumstances. By late September, over 90,000 individuals had fled their homes, with approximately 23,000 arriving in Mueda alone by October. Many of these individuals were victims of repeated displacements, forced back to camps they had previously left.
In response to the resurgent violence, MSF quickly recalibrated its operations. The organization intensified its medical support in various camps, including Eduardo Mondlane, Nandimba, and Lianda, while also reaching out to surrounding communities affected by the crisis. Enhanced infection prevention and control measures were established, and critical referrals for urgent medical care were facilitated. Additionally, mental health services expanded to address the increasing psychological distress among the displaced population.
The situation in Cabo Delgado highlights the fragility of healthcare access in northern Mozambique, further complicating the efforts to secure consistent medical care for both displaced individuals and local communities. While MSF is stepping back from Mueda, the organization acknowledges the ongoing humanitarian challenges faced by residents, with the specter of sudden violence and displacement ever-present.
MSF remains unwavering in its commitment to adjusting its response to evolving needs within the region. They continue to operate in various locations across Cabo Delgado, providing essential services including general health consultations, maternity and paediatric care, and treatment for chronic diseases like HIV and tuberculosis. In addition, MSF is addressing a cholera outbreak in Nacala and extends emergency interventions in Érati district.
The struggles of communities in Cabo Delgado showcase the dire conditions that many face in their pursuit of safety and health. As the region grapples with the impact of conflict, MSF’s ongoing presence underscores the importance of humanitarian assistance where it’s needed most.
— Reported by Nexio News
