At the beginning of May, Brother Vincent travelled to Mozambique at the invitation of the country’s SSVP National President, Brother Arlindo Antonio Cossa. The visit aimed to strengthen the relationship between our two countries, exchange ideas, and witness firsthand the work being done in local communities.
Vincent arrived in Maputo on 1 May, where he was warmly welcomed at the airport by members of the Frederico Ozanam Conference. After lunch with the group, they began the long journey to Xai Xai. Although the distance is only 220 km, the trip took almost five hours, owing to severe road damage caused by devastating floods earlier in the year.
Flood damage at Xai Xai
In Xai Xai, the group distributed food parcels and met families whose homes had been swept away by the floods. SSVP Mozambique has helped rebuild some of the houses, but they are not strong, and remain vulnerable to floods. More heavy rains could wash them away again.
The group later attended a Conference meeting in Chonguene, where the president presented the annual report and members shared updates on the many projects and outreach activities taking place in their communities.
Old age home
The meeting was held at an old age home, and afterwards the group shared lunch with the residents. Sister Maria de Ceu of the Sisters of Charity — a member of FAMVIN Mozambique — delivered a moving speech on “Seeing Jesus in the Poor,” leaving a deep impression on those present.
From there, the journey continued to Chokwe, approximately 122 km away. Once again, poor road conditions made travel slow and difficult. The following morning, after Mass, the group visited Guija, where they witnessed further flood destruction and more rebuilding efforts supported by SSVP Mozambique.
Three days stranded on the roof
One family spoke of how they had spent three days stranded on the roof of their home in the pouring rain, as floodwaters rose two metres around them.
Later, the group visited an orphanage and shared lunch with around 80 children between the ages of two and ten. SSVP members brought cake and toys, much to the delight of the children.
Reflecting on the experience, Vincent described the visit as both emotional and deeply inspiring.
An eye-opener
“The visit was truly an eye-opener for me,” he said. “Mozambique is one of the poorer countries in Africa, yet the dedication of the members and the compassion they show in assisting vulnerable communities is incredibly heart-warming.
“The needs are great – from farming equipment to brick-making machines. Surplus produce and bricks can then be sold to raise funds for other urgent needs.
“For me, the visit was extremely worthwhile, yet very emotional.”
