AFRICA/MOZAMBIQUE - Religious representatives in Cabo Delgado warn of a humanitarian crisis

Cabo Delgado (Agenzia Fides) - "Our province is in a deep humanitarian crisis caused by terrorist violence, while indicators of holistic development are declining, which is made worse by the consequences of restrictive preventive measures against the pandemic", warned religious leaders in the province Cabo Delgado in northern Mozambique in a joint statement denouncing the economic and social crisis caused by terrorist violence in the region.
In their appeal, they underline that acts of terrorism should not be attributed to the Muslim religion and "reject any explanation that links such acts with the principles of Islam". "We condemn acts and persons who distort religious teachings to justify any kind of violence", says the text.
The religious communities agree to "work with the government, institutions and organizations that work for peace in the province of Cabo Delgado". "We reaffirm our strong unity in the face of any risk of rupture and our unanimous opposition to terrorist and extremist acts and our commitment to walk side by side on the path to peace and brotherhood", the Christian and Muslim leaders expressly state.
Religious representatives are particularly concerned about "social inequalities, a high level of illiteracy, the crisis of ethical and moral values and ethnic and religious polarization". In this context, it affirms a vision of religion that turns away from violence and prejudice and promotes social dialogue "in an open, honest and inclusive manner". They also emphasize the need to accompany young people in particular on a path towards "reconciliation and social reintegration".
For more than four years, the province of Cabo Delgado has been the scene of attacks by armed rebels, some of which are linked to the "Islamic State (IS)". According to information from local authorities and international organizations, the conflict has already resulted in more than 3,100 deaths and over 800,000 people to flee. (Agenzia Fides, 5/1/2022)

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