'Miracle baby' born in a tree above Mozambique floodwaters dies aged 25

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 3 min read 100% complete January 12, 2026 at 06:39 PM

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Rosita Salvador Mabuiango, known as the "miracle baby" born in a tree during the devastating Mozambique floods of 2000, has died at the age of 25 after a prolonged illness. Rosita and her mother, Carolina Cecilia Chirindza, became symbols of hope when they were rescued by a South African helicopter after Carolina gave birth while seeking refuge from the rising floodwaters. The floods, caused by the Limpopo River bursting its banks, displaced hundreds of thousands and claimed hundreds of lives. Rosita's birth and subsequent rescue captured international attention, and she and her mother traveled to the US to raise awareness about the disaster. Her sister confirmed that Rosita had been battling anaemia for years and was hospitalized for over two weeks before her death.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Red Cross 30% United States 40% BBC ×240% South Africa ×250% Daniel Chapo 50% Limpopo river 60% Mozambique ×280% Carolina Cecilia Chirindza ×480% Rosita Salvador Mabuiango ×690%

Keywords

mozambique floods 100% death 80% miracle baby 70% rescue operations 60% helicopter rescue 50% limpopo river 50% natural disaster 50% blood disorder 40% long illness 40%