Overcrowding, poor healthcare, poverty and the economic situation, means that the impact of Covid-19 in Mozambique could be devastating.

ADEL, our NGO partner in Mozambique has asked that BLB fundraise for communities in Beira to make face masks. This appeal is to purchase sewing machines and materials to make 10,000 face masks, and supplies of soap for 2,000 disadvantaged families in the informal settlements in Beira. This will help mitigate the impact of the coronavirus and help create a longer-term employment and community resource.

Moses Kakanu, Programmes Coordinator, for ADEL, has just reported “face masks are not readily available, a family of five or six must share one mask, exchanging with another family member when they come home – the situation is really dangerous”.

The WHO has stated “The spread of the new coronavirus has recently doubled its numbers. The confirmed cases in Africa shows just how quickly the pandemic is accelerating on the continent”. There is additional concern for Mozambique as it has long borders, with six different countries, and Beira is a major international port.

The impact of Covid-19 on families and children already suffering from the long-term effects of catastrophic floods in 2000 followed by further massive damage from the 2019 Cyclone Idai is horrific. Mozambique’s health system is already overstretched by the high burden of other infectious diseases such as HIV and malaria. Most people do not have enough masks, soap or water to wash their hands frequently.

This appeal has been endorsed by Bristol’s Mayor Marvin Rees, whilst Beira’s Mayor Daviz Simango has allocated addtional sites for informal markets to ease social distancing. 

Your donation will help save lives. Thank you!