In the aftermath of Cyclone Idai, the community of Guara Guara in Mozambique’s Búzi district faced the daunting task of rebuilding their lives. Years after the disaster, hope returned as 160 families received the keys to new homes at the Guara Guara Great Love Village—a milestone in a project that aims to construct over 2,000 sturdy homes for those affected.
Community Gathers for a Day of Hope
Preparation for the handover ceremony began early, with volunteers ensuring the venue was clean, organized, and welcoming. As dawn broke, families from across Guara Guara arrived, many accompanied by relatives, their faces reflecting both emotion and anticipation. The atmosphere was filled with gratitude and hope, as the community came together to witness a transformative moment in their recovery.
LEFT: In the early hours of the day, the beneficiaries of the new homes arrived at the ceremony site with enthusiasm and emotion. CENTER: One by one, each beneficiary signed the receipt documents and received the keys to their new homes. RIGHT: A new resident unable to contain her excitement as she carries a new mattress to her new home. | Photo: Tzu Chi Mozambique
The event was attended by local leaders, including the District Administrator of Búzi, José Paulo Mutoroma, who was welcomed by volunteers, community representatives, and members of the Gabinete de Reconstrução Pós-Ciclones (GREPOC, Post Cyclone Idai Reconstruction Office). The ceremony began with a prayer led by community leaders, emphasizing unity, faith, and the shared journey toward rebuilding.
Dignity Restored Through Shelter
During the ceremony, representatives from GREPOC and the local administration highlighted the importance of collaboration in the reconstruction process. They noted that the handover of 160 homes is part of Tzu Chi's broader plan to build 2,067 homes, with at least 700 expected to be completed by the end of the year. The focus, they stressed, is not just on numbers, but on restoring dignity, safety, and stability to families who lost so much.
The District Administrator described the handover as the realization of a collective dream, pointing out that each home was delivered with a kit of essential goods—mattresses, blankets, a table, a broom, a bathroom bucket, and a dustpan—ensuring that families could settle in with comfort and dignity. He encouraged residents to care for their new homes and foster a spirit of peace and harmony in the community.
LEFT: Volunteers welcomed the District Administrator of Búzi, Mr. José Paulo Mutoroma (center with blue shirt), along with the Chief of the Guara Guara Administrative Post (front right). RIGHT: The ceremony began with a moment of prayer led by community leaders Mr. Armando and Mr. José Carlos Pedro, highlighting values such as solidarity, hope, and faith. | Photo: Tzu Chi Mozambique
Stories of Resilience
Among the recipients was Fátima Joaquim, a 45-year-old widow and mother of seven. After losing her home in 2019, she endured years of uncertainty. The relief was visible on her face as she received her keys, expressing her gratitude by saying, “If you lived here, I would make two buckets of Maheu just to say thank you.”
Another beneficiary, Castigo Manuel, lives with eight family members. He recalled the hardship following the floods, which took away his home and belongings. With the new house, he no longer worries about building shelter himself and plans to use his savings to start a small business or improve his family’s living conditions. He expressed thanks for the support that has brought dignity and hope to his family and many others.
LEFT: Volunteers hand over the new home keys to Fátima Joaquim, who expressed sincere gratitude and joy. RIGHT: Castigo Manuel sits in his new home with volunteers sharing his plans to save up and start a small business. | Photos: Tzu Chi Mozambique
A Model for Sustainable Recovery
The handover process was organized and dignified, with each beneficiary signing for their new home and receiving their kit. The event reflected not only physical progress but also the values of solidarity and community. As the project continues, more families are expected to benefit, establishing Guara Guara as a model for dignified and sustainable reconstruction in Mozambique.
Written by Midia Sofala
