An ISIS-affiliated insurgency in northern Mozambique is regaining momentum at a time when major U.S. aid cuts have significantly weakened humanitarian operations in the country. Violence in Cabo Delgado has displaced nearly 60,000 people within two weeks, overwhelming relief agencies already struggling with limited resources.
According to multiple reports, more than 83% of U.S. development and humanitarian assistance to Mozambique has been suspended, forcing key social, education, and stabilization programs to shut down. The overall U.S. aid allocation fell sharply from $821 million in 2024 to $243 million in 2025, a reduction analysts warn is worsening insecurity and civilian vulnerability.
Aid groups say the consequences are severe. Only 19% of funding required for Mozambique’s 2025 Humanitarian Response Plan has been secured, leaving critical gaps in food support, medical services, and shelter for displaced families. Refugees International criticized the cuts, describing them as a setback that strengthens extremist groups and undermines community resilience.
Meanwhile, attacks carried out by ISIS-aligned militants in Cabo Delgado have intensified, continuing a conflict that has persisted since 2017. Analysts note that the decline in international support has created new opportunities for insurgents to expand their operations and recruit from impoverished communities.
Humanitarian organizations are calling on global partners to urgently restore funding to prevent further deterioration. They warn that without additional support, civilian suffering will escalate and extremist groups will continue to exploit the instability.
Source: Thepressradio.com
