The First Lady of the Republic, Gueta Selemane Chapo, began a two-day working visit to Nampula province yesterday, with the aim of showing solidarity and reinforcing assistance to the communities affected by Cyclone Jude.

One of the first acts of his trip was to the district of Nacala, where he took part in the Iftar with the Halifas (women religious leaders), the meal that marks the end of the daily fast during the holy month of Ramadan, and handed out donations to needy families.

"We're here in Nampula province to get to work. As you all know, Nampula province was devastated by Cyclone Jude, not just Nampula, but also Cabo Delgado, Niassa and Zambézia, and this time we're starting with Nampula province," said the First Lady, stressing the importance of her presence in order to feel the difficulties faced by the population up close.

Speaking to the press, Gueta Chapo emphasized that the visit was aimed not only at providing material support, but also at promoting direct dialogue with the communities, especially the women.

"Our visit also prioritizes direct dialogue with the communities, with the population, especially with women. We want to find out what women's problems are, what they want to be improved in the area of women and children", she said.

The First Lady recognized that in situations of natural disasters and conflicts, the most vulnerable groups are women and children.

"When cyclones happen, when wars happen, when conflicts happen, it's women and children who suffer the most," she said, stressing that her cabinet is committed to mobilizing resources and strengthening coordination with partners to ensure a rapid and efficient response.

The President of the Republic's wife also stressed her commitment to defending women's rights and combating gender-based violence.

"And to say here today that I will be the number one defender of women's rights. I have to fight murder, we have to fight femicide and we also have to fight sexual harassment both in schools and in public and private institutions," she said, stressing the need to guarantee fair opportunities for women and girls in the country.

Gueta Chapo encouraged women to unite in the fight against inequality and to build a more just and equitable society.

"We are together, we have to be united, all in peace, and let's spread messages of peace, not messages of violence, because together and united we will be stronger," she appealed.

In addition to the Nacala district, the First Lady has scheduled visits to other parts of Nampula province, where she will continue to interact with the communities and reinforce the support actions for the families affected by Cyclone Jude. Her visit stands out as a sign of her Cabinet's commitment to ensuring the well-being of the communities affected by the storm.