Mozambique: Tzu Chi donates more than a tonne of rice and 70 blankets to Maputo Central Hospital after fire

The Tzu Chi Charity Foundation Mozambique on Monday donated more than one tonne of rice and 70 blankets to Maputo Central Hospital (HCM), in response to the needs of the healthcare facility following the large-scale fire that broke out on Sunday in the Oncology Department.

“When we heard about the fire through the news, we were shocked. We felt it was important to offer our support to an institution that has lost an area that is fundamental to the fight against cancer. The Oncology Department represents a door of hope for many patients who fight every day for their lives and the possibility of a better future,” said Tai-Lin Tsai, founder of the Tzu Chi Charity Foundation Mozambique.

The initiative aims to help alleviate the difficulties faced by the hospital and support patients affected by the incident at a particularly difficult time for the country’s largest hospital.

The fire caused significant damage to the Oncology Department’s facilities, disrupting the operation of an essential area for providing specialised care to patients with cancer.

“Thank you very much for the support you are providing to our patients. At this very difficult time, we feel that we are not alone,” said Otília Soares, Director of the Oncology Services at Maputo Central Hospital.

The fire caused no deaths or injuries. The 22 patients admitted to the Oncology Department were evacuated safely, with 12 subsequently discharged from hospital. The remaining ten were transferred to the Dermatology Department, where they continue to receive medical care and psychological support.

The Tzu Chi Charity Foundation established itself in Mozambique in 2012 and significantly expanded its activities in the country in 2019, following Cyclone Idai.

With representations in more than 60 countries, Tzu Chi, which celebrated its 60th anniversary globally this year, was founded by Master Cheng Yen, a Buddhist spiritual leader. Its pillars are Education, Charity, Medicine and Humanistic Culture.

About the Foundation

Tzu Chi is the world’s largest Buddhist humanitarian organisation. It was founded in 1966 by the Venerable Master Cheng Yen, a Buddhist nun. “Tzu Chi” means “compassion and relief”, and the foundation’s mission is to alleviate human suffering through acts of kindness and selfless service.

Present in more than 60 countries, Tzu Chi supports all those in need, without distinction of religion, race or nationality, guided by high moral principles and a spirit of selflessness.

In Mozambique, Tzu Chi established itself in 2012 and focuses on supporting communities in various areas, particularly education, agriculture, health and assistance to populations, especially during emergencies caused by the recurring natural disasters that have affected the country.

With contributions from more than 10 million volunteers around the world and the efforts of around 10,000 volunteers in Mozambique, Tzu Chi promotes a culture of peace, solidarity and mutual respect, bringing comfort and hope to communities.