Mutua - With the commitment to support women and girls affected by Cyclone Idai, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) held a series of activities on Thursday in Beira, Mutua and Chipende. Among the actions carried out were the distribution of 352 dignity kits and the installation of maternity equipment (delivered in a kit containing equipment to serve pregnant women and women in labor).

"These activities are part of UNFPA's work in response to Cyclone Idai. At the Peakock Accommodation Center, home to over 4,000 people, we visited our integrated services clinic; here at Mutua Health Center, we installed two tents and brought a maternity kit. This temporary center, where care and delivery will be carried out, is one of 15 that will be implemented in other vulnerable areas," said Andrea Wojnar, UNFPA Representative in Mozambique.

The Mutua Health Center is the only clinic available to serve 25,000 people. Before the temporary clinic (in 42 square meter tent), the consultations take place in a room that was totally damaged by the cyclone.

"The center was completely destroyed. On the day the cyclone hit, we had a woman in labor in here. Yesterday we had two deliveries here, in this room. From today, with the temporary clinic, we will be able to care for pregnant women and provide the support they need using this equipment, " said nurse Luiza Jeque.

The UNFPA team also visited the accommodation center in Chipende, home to more than 1,000 people. Following an information session on sexual and reproductive health, 352 women and girls received dignity kits (with hygiene and safety items) for vulnerable women.

"I had to come to this shelter with my husband and son because nothing was left of my house. We have many needs here, so these panties, capulanas, and flashlight will help us a lot, "said Elisabete, 19.

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