Vodacom Foundations, in partnership with government agencies and humanitarian organisations, have committed R6-million towards disaster-relief efforts in Mozambique and South Africa, following severe flooding that has displaced thousands of people and caused significant damage to homes and infrastructure.
The funding will support immediate humanitarian assistance, community rebuilding initiatives and efforts to help affected families begin their recovery. The commitment is made on behalf of Vodacom Group and is in addition to the company’s ongoing operational response to restore network connectivity in affected areas.
Since the beginning of the year, severe flooding has devastated communities across southern and central Mozambique. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the most recent floods have displaced more than 400 000 people. Provinces such as Gaza, Maputo and parts of central Mozambique have been among the hardest hit, with rapidly rising floodwaters forcing families to evacuate with little warning and without essential belongings.
In South Africa, recent flooding in Limpopo province has resulted in loss of life and widespread damage to homes and infrastructure, particularly in the Mopani, Vhembe and Sekhukhune districts.
Ayman Essam, chief officer: external affairs at Vodacom Group, comments: “The devastation caused by the floods in Mozambique and South Africa is a profound tragedy that has displaced families, disrupted livelihoods and claimed lives. As a purpose-led African organisation, we recognise both our responsibility and our ability to act decisively in times of crisis.”
In Mozambique, Vodacom’s technology teams are working under challenging conditions to restore connectivity. Flooded roads, power outages and damaged infrastructure have complicated restoration efforts, but the network is recovering steadily. In addition, the Vodafone Foundation has deployed Instant Network Emergency Response (INER) volunteers to support connectivity restoration and ensure access to critical communications.