The Mozambican government has decreed two days of national mourning for the 73 fatalities recorded so far as a result of cyclone Chido in the north and center of the country, it said in a statement..

The President of the Republic, Filipe Nyusi, lamented the deaths of citizens and the destruction of infrastructure caused by the cyclone. The Mozambican statesman spoke to the country during his speech on the festive season. Nyusi also called for solidarity.

"We are going to immediately prioritize support for the replacement of shelters, housing, food, energy, water and the distribution of seeds, in addition to the other support that is taking place," said Nyusi, quoted by the VOA.

The days of national mourning begin on Friday (20) at midnight. The national flag will be hoisted at half-mast throughout the country and at the diplomatic and consular missions of the Republic of Mozambique.

In addition to the fatalities, more than 500 people are still missing. The storm affected homes, schools, health facilities and public and private infrastructure.

According to the United Nations, OCHA, at least 182,000 people have been affected, in the provinces of Nampula, Niassa and Cabo Delgado, as well as in the center of the country, in Tete and Sofala. "But the numbers could rise as the assessments are completed," OCHA said in its update.

"The conclusions underline the urgent need for humanitarian interventions to respond to critical needs in multiple sectors," including housing, health, food, education and protection.

The United Nations has allocated four million dollars to respond to the humanitarian emergency.

(Photo DR)