Mozambique: Two Die as 40,000 Flock to Macaneta Beach on Holidays

What the report says

At least two people died at Macaneta Beach in Marracuene District, in Mozambique’s southern Maputo province, as tens of thousands of holidaymakers gathered there on Friday, according to Agencia de Informacao de Mocambique, republished by AllAfrica. The deaths happened during national holiday celebrations marking both the 60th anniversary of the National Liberation Struggle and the 51st anniversary of Armed Forces for the Defense of Mozambique Day.

Local officials said the crowd size reached roughly 30,000 to 40,000 people. Marracuene mayor Shafee Sidat said the deaths were not caused by drowning and pushed back against online claims that a far higher number of people had died. He said municipal police, local authorities and lifeguards were deployed to help manage the beach and keep visitors safe.

The report also said the large turnout brought other problems, including petty theft, especially phone snatching, and heavy rubbish buildup along the beach and access roads. Lifeguard Elias Nobel said rescue teams carried out about 30 interventions involving people in danger of drowning, with all resolved successfully.

Authorities began a cleanup operation early Saturday and said it would continue because of the volume of waste, including bottles and broken glass. Officials said they plan stricter safety measures and better organization for future peak periods, while urging visitors to use waste bins and help protect public spaces.