Mozambique's Beaches: A Season of Rescues and Reminders

MAPUTO, Mozambique – Mozambican authorities have reported a slight decrease in drowning incidents during the recent holiday period, despite a number of other maritime incidents. Between December 20th and January 5th, seven drownings were recorded across 71 monitored beaches nationwide, down from eight during the same period last year.

The National Maritime Institute (INAMAR) announced the figures on Monday, highlighting the efforts of their contingency plan for the 2024/2025 festive season. While the decrease in drownings is a positive development, the period also saw two disappearances at sea (compared to one last year), one shipwreck, 20 animal attacks, and one fuel spill.

Drownings occurred at various beaches across the country, including Fernão Veloso Beach in Nampula, Inos Beach in Cabo Delgado, Veleiro and Nova beaches in Sofala, Bilene Beach in Gaza, and Macaneta and Ponta de Ouro beaches in Maputo province.

INAMAR, in collaboration with a multi-sectoral team including Maritime Administrations (ADMARES), the Coastal, Lacustrine and Fluvial Police (PCLF), the National Public Salvation Service (SENSAP), municipal and national police forces, and provincial health services, conducted extensive maritime and land patrols, beach signage installation, and public awareness campaigns targeting beachgoers and maritime transport operators.

“We conducted maritime and land surveillance, installed beach signage, and held awareness talks for beachgoers and maritime transport operators,” stated INAMAR spokesperson Lionid Chimarizene.

The intensified monitoring efforts also resulted in 17 successful search and rescue operations. In Gaza, near Xai-Xai beach, a Mozambican citizen was rescued from imminent drowning thanks to the swift response of a joint INAMAR, PCLF, and SENSAP patrol. In Maputo’s Ponta D’Ouro, 15 individuals, including Indian, South African, and Mozambican nationals, were rescued by a team comprising INAMAR, PCLF, Maputo National Park personnel, and lifeguards. Another Mozambican beachgoer was rescued off the coast of Mozambique Island and subsequently discharged from hospital after a medical evaluation.

As a precautionary measure, Maritime Administrations across the country enforced a mandatory 6 PM curfew for beachgoers to ensure public safety.

While authorities acknowledge the slight improvement in drowning statistics, they emphasize the continued need for vigilance and preventative measures to minimize maritime incidents during future holiday periods. The collaborative efforts of various agencies and the increased focus on surveillance and public awareness are seen as crucial steps in ensuring the safety of beachgoers in Mozambique.