Summary
In Mozambique, Archbishop Claudio Dalla Zuanna of Beira has been a central figure in responding to catastrophic floods caused by overflowing waters from the Búzi River. The dam management is blamed for exacerbating an already severe climate catastrophe that has claimed nearly 300 lives across southern Africa. Since mid-December, the river had been flooding with three significant waves reaching up to 12 meters above sea level in January, leading to widespread destruction. Over 700,000 people were affected, and more than 77,000 have sought shelter in temporary housing centers. Archbishop Dalla Zuanna described the human cost of the disaster, including compromised critical infrastructure such as hospitals, accommodation centers, and public facilities that led to displacement, a surge in waterborne diseases, and exacerbated social vulnerabilities. In response, the Church of Beira has called for support from the faithful and all people of good will, focusing on providing spiritual assistance through small prayer groups and launching a rapid response initiative with Caritas North America.
Key Topics
Vatican City, Pope Leo XIV, Dalla Zuanna
