Mozambique Faces Humanitarian Crisis Following Tropical Cyclone Chido
Tropical Cyclone Chido has affected over 453,000 people in Mozambique, prompting a humanitarian flash appeal for US$88 million to assist 320,000 individuals, with significant destruction of homes, health facilities, and farmland reported. Assessment and relief efforts are underway to address the urgent needs and restore food security.
As of 27 December 2024, the humanitarian situation in Mozambique has significantly deteriorated due to the effects of Tropical Cyclone Chido, which has prompted an urgent response from both the government and international aid organizations. Approximately 453,971 individuals, equivalent to 90,513 families, are currently affected across various provinces, including Cabo Delgado and Nampula. In response, a flash appeal has been launched to raise US$88 million to assist the 320,000 people directly impacted, which includes 156,000 women and girls.
Assessment teams have reported widespread devastation, with over 70,400 houses completely destroyed and 32,200 sustaining damage, severely impacting the housing situation. Medical infrastructure has also suffered a major setback, as 52 health facilities have been affected, hindering both routine and emergency healthcare delivery in the regions that sustained extensive damage. Furthermore, the World Food Programme’s analysis indicates that more than 456,000 hectares of land, including croplands, have been submerged, endangering food security and livelihoods.
The backdrop of this update is rooted in the relentless impact of natural disasters in Mozambique, particularly as the country frequently confronts intense tropical cyclones during the cyclone season. Tropical Cyclone Chido has emerged as one of the significant cyclones of 2024, leading to widespread chaos and necessitating immediate humanitarian actions. Proper assessments are crucial to inform aid distribution, and mobilizing financial support is essential for addressing the growing needs of those affected, thereby ensuring their resilience in the aftermath of such calamities.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has instigated a dire humanitarian crisis in Mozambique, with over 453,000 individuals affected and significant challenges in infrastructure and health services. The government, alongside humanitarian partners, is striving to mobilize resources to provide immediate assistance to those in need. The anticipated contributions from the flash appeal will play a critical role in addressing the pressing humanitarian requirements of the population affected by Cyclone Chido, particularly for vulnerable women and children.
Original Source: www.unocha.org
