Heavy rains caused by Cyclone Freddy have severely damaged Maputo, the capital of Mozambique and many local volunteers have themselves become disaster victims.

Tropical cyclone Freddy, which formed on February 6 in southeastern Africa, has lasted for over a month and has yet to dissipate. Heavy rains have severely damaged Maputo, the capital of Mozambique. (Photo by Charles Cai; 2023/2/12) 

At the end of February, Tzu Chi initiated the first phase of relief work, distributing food and living essentials to 3,800 households of affected volunteers. The second phase was launched in early March, to help more than 17,000 local residents overcome the difficulties caused by the disaster.

Volunteers packed living necessities into bags of food and distributed them in relays from containers. Local volunteers were also affected by the flooding, and some lost their crops or even their homes. Tzu Chi has been caring for them and providing assistance.

Volunteers formed a human chain to move daily essentials out of containers and package them into bags of food and living supplies. (Photo by Charles Cai; 2023/02/27) 

In addition to caring for affected volunteers, Tzu Chi's Mozambique office also launched a post-disaster aid program. The first phase targeted 3,800 affected volunteers with food, clean water tablets, and blankets.

Erika, a staff member of Tzu Chi Mozambique, said: "Our local volunteers have become our beneficiaries during the flooding period. Their lives have really been plunged into great difficulty, but Tzu Chi's ability to help and accompany them is really great."

The second phase of distribution, launched on March 7th, targeted 469 volunteers with seed and agricultural tool packages. It also expanded to 38 areas and 17,430 households on the outskirts of Maputo to provide material supplies.

Volunteers formed a human chain to move daily essentials out of containers and package them into bags of food and living supplies. (Photo by Charles Cai; 2023/03/02) 

Volunteer Areirius expressed gratitude: "With these supplies, my family and neighbors will not go hungry, and I can also work as a volunteer with more peace of mind."

Volunteer Felismina said: "During this flood, both of my daughters' homes were severely flooded, and now they have moved in with me. After receiving the supplies, I will share them with them."

The first phase of post-disaster relief distribution after Tropical Cyclone Freddy aimed to help local Tzu Chi volunteers. (Photo by Charles Cai; 2023/02/28) 

Unfortunately, the distribution plan of volunteers has recently been delayed by the winds and rain of the cyclone. In some flooded areas, volunteers cannot enter due to safety concerns. But they said that, as long as the weather allows, they will deliver aid to residents as soon as possible.

A Jing Si Aphorism says: “Serving others without reluctance and putting in hard work can bring a sense of peace and joy without seeking future rewards.”

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After the water receded on February 16th, the volunteers were able to reach the Mahubo area to offer care and embrace volunteer Amelia Chirindza (on the right). (Photo provided by Tzu Chi Foundation; Mahubo area in Maputo, Mozambique; 2023/02/16) 

Charles Cai and Samuel reported from Mozambique