Mozambique - the effects of war
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Clearing an area of landmines is a very slow and dangerous
process
Photo: Carlos Mhula/Oxfam |
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Mozambique’s civil war was one of the most brutal conflicts
ever waged in Africa. By the time it ended after sixteen years,
close to one million people had lost their lives through violence,
hunger and disease. Around four million people were forced to flee
their homes to different parts of the country. Nearly two million
escaped to neighbouring countries. Schools and hospitals were burned
out. Industry was left in ruins.
Long after peace returned to Mozambique, the number of war casualties
continued to grow. Civilians, especially women and children, were
the main victims of landmines that had been buried throughout the
country. They were usually planted off main roads on bush paths,
at water sites, or in people’s fields. These have claimed over
10,000 lives and wounded many more. With these hidden dangers, it
is very difficult for people to feel secure in peace.
Introduction
|| History
|| Geography
& Environment
People
& Society || Factfile
|| Oxfam in Mozambique
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