Maputo, Feb 2 (NationPress) The President of Mozambique, Daniel Chapo, officially inaugurated the nation's 2026 Judicial Year on Monday, urging the justice system to uphold fundamental rights in the face of ongoing floods and prioritizing the protection of children as a national imperative.

During the ceremony held in Maputo with the presence of senior judicial leaders and state representatives, Chapo emphasized that the current crisis challenges the responsiveness of all state institutions, including the justice system, as floods have ravaged critical infrastructure such as courts, police stations, and correctional facilities.

The president pointed out that children comprise approximately 51 percent of Mozambique's population, thereby making their safeguarding a vital national concern. He stated, "Defending children equates to protecting the future of our nation," as reported by Xinhua News Agency.

Chapo reminded attendees that Mozambique is a signatory to significant international child rights treaties and possesses a solid legal structure, yet he stressed the necessity for effective law enforcement.

According to official statistics, over 30 percent of girls and 40 percent of boys aged 18 to 24 have faced some form of violence before turning 18, and issues like child labor and early marriage persist. He cautioned that such statistics should not be overlooked.

Chapo condemned the exploitation of children by criminal organizations, particularly in contexts related to terrorism and the illegal exploitation of natural resources, asserting that the justice system must protect children and hold offenders accountable.

The president reiterated the government's pledge to enhance human, material, and financial resources for the justice sector within the nation’s financial limitations.

"The advancement and absolute protection of children's rights is not merely an option but a constitutional, legal, and ethical obligation," he emphasized.

Earlier in January, the Mozambican government acknowledged a funding deficit of 6.6 billion meticais (approximately 103.3 million USD) to address humanitarian needs due to the torrential rains and extensive flooding affecting the country.

Assistance will be directed towards displaced individuals, healthcare services, and food distribution in temporary shelters, as stated by government spokesperson Inocencio Impissa during a press briefing on Tuesday.

Impissa noted that the newly revised figure is lower than an earlier estimate of nearly 8 billion meticais, following adjustments based on already mobilized resources and support from partners.

Despite financial challenges, the government has designated resources to manage the emergency, leveraging national funds, international partnerships, and aid from neighboring countries, he added.

Resources available include nine helicopters, boats, and other aircraft utilized in search, rescue, and relief operations for communities affected by floods, according to the spokesperson.