ExxonMobil has announced it will provide $300,000 in financial aid to support the relief effort in Mozambique in the wake of Cyclone Idai. This was one of the worst tropical cyclones to have ever affected Africa, having killed at least 308 people in Mozambique alone and affected millions more in the region.
The $300,000 is being donated by ExxonMobil Moçambique Limitada, an affiliate of ExxonMobil, the oil major behind Mobil UK stockists. Of this, some $50,000 will be given to various organizations helping the Mozambique government with its disaster-relief efforts. The remaining $250,000 is being given for the American Red Cross to support its continuing rescue work to help it to provide comfort, shelter, and food to those affected by the storm, which caused severe flooding in the country.
Speaking for ExxonMobil, its chairman and chief executive officer, Darren Woods, said:
“We are deeply saddened by the impact of Cyclone Idai on Mozambique and surrounding countries. The devastation has been widespread, and this funding will help provide relief during a difficult time. Our thoughts are with everyone affected.”
ExxonMobil has a strong presence in Mozambique, but all its contractors and employees are said to be safe following the cyclone. It is leading the building and operation of the future natural gas liquefaction and other associated facilities for the deepwater Area 4 block, which it holds a 25% interest in, albeit indirectly. It also holds a majority interest in the Zambezi Delta and Angoche basins.
