Faye Callaghan, IFRC, Johannesburg
When riots erupted recently in Maputo, the Mozambique Red Cross was quickly on the scene to help the injured.
Recent increases in the cost of food, water, gas and electricity led to an SMS campaign encouraging people to demonstrate. The result was blocked roads and widespread rioting that left seven people dead and almost 300 injured in the capital city.
The Mozambique Red Cross immediately mobilized seven teams of 23 volunteers and 18 staff to provide first aid and evacuate those requiring hospital treatment.
Although the riots have calmed, there remain fears of a resurgence of unrest, so the Red Cross remains on standby to send out mobile first aid teams where necessary.
“The situation is under control but we are taking preventive measures so that we are not taken by surprise if protests start again,” said Americo Ubisse, Secretary General of the Mozambique Red Cross.
Staff and volunteers are also providing psychological support to those affected by the riots.
“The Mozambique Red Cross reacted very quickly, which was impressive,” said Farid Aiywar, IFRC disaster management coordinator in Mozambique. “The IFRC is supporting the Red Cross to replenish their stocks of first aid materials and to be ready for any future outbreaks of violence.