Mozambique: Zambézia records more than 700 leprosy cases in nine months

More than 700 cases of leprosy were recorded in Zambézia province in the first nine months of this year, an increase compared with 2025, when around 600 cases were registered over the entire year.

The figures were provided by Leonardo Mareço, Head of the Public Health Department at the Zambézia Provincial Health Service, in an interview in Quelimane, on the sidelines of a meeting with journalists organised by The Leprosy Mission Mozambique

According to Mareço, the increase in cases is associated, among other factors, with the limited capacity to diagnose the disease in communities and healthcare facilities. The districts with the highest incidence are Alto Molócuè, Gilé, Molévala, Mocuba and Lugela.

Leonardo Mareço explained that the province has the facilities to care for people affected by the disease, but warned of the importance of recognising its early signs, including the appearance of small patches on the skin and loss of sensation in the affected areas.

He argued that early diagnosis is essential to ensure timely treatment and prevent complications.

Pedro Safrão, national director of The Leprosy Mission Mozambique, said the organisation is working in coordination with the Government to help eliminate the disease in the country. Its activities include involving volunteers in healthcare facilities and communities.

The Leprosy Mission Mozambique operates in the districts of Alto Molócuè, Namarroi and Gilé, and plans to expand its interventions to other parts of Zambézia province.

Among the announced initiatives is the construction of a ward for the treatment of leprosy patients in Alto Molócuè. Investments of €1.5 million are planned for activities in the province up to 2028, funded by the organisation’s partners.