IOM Flash Appeal for Cyclone Chido Response in Northern Mozambique
Tropical Cyclone Chido struck northern Mozambique on December 15, 2024, affecting 380,000 individuals across Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa provinces. Over 88,670 homes were damaged or destroyed, leading to urgent needs for shelter, NFIs, and food. The IOM appeals for USD 12,159,000 to assist 240,000 affected individuals amid ongoing conflict and food insecurity. A coordinated response is urgent as the rainy season approaches, potentially worsening conditions.
On December 15, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido struck northern Mozambique, devastating Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa provinces. The cyclone unleashed torrential rain, with 250 mm recorded within 24 hours, and wind gusts reaching approximately 260 km/h. The National Institute for Natural Disaster (INGD) reports that around 380,000 individuals, encompassing 76,100 households, have been adversely affected, with over 88,670 residences damaged or destroyed.
The immediate needs for the impacted populace include shelter, non-food items (NFIs), water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) kits, and food assistance. The ongoing conflict in Cabo Delgado, which has persisted since 2017, has exacerbated the situation, as these districts have experienced significant displacement due to sporadic violence. Additionally, acute food insecurity is prevalent, with some areas reporting IPC 4 levels of food insecurity.
With the rainy season on the horizon, which lasts until April 2025, there is a pressing need for timely assistance to prevent further deterioration of the situation. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is working closely with the INGD, OCHA, and other inter-agency partners to mount an effective response. Through this flash appeal, IOM seeks to generate USD 12,159,000 over the next six months to assist approximately 240,000 people affected in the regions of Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa. IOM’s efforts are in alignment with the processing of the interagency Flash Appeal and the ongoing Multi-cluster/Sector Initial Rapid Assessment.
Tropical Cyclone Chido has had a devastating impact on northern Mozambique, a region already grappling with humanitarian challenges stemming from ongoing conflict and food insecurity. Over the years, the escalating violence in Cabo Delgado has led to substantial displacement, further complicating the recovery efforts from natural disasters. The cyclone’s impact intensified these vulnerabilities, resulting in urgent humanitarian needs that require immediate and coordinated responses from local and international agencies. The rainy season, commencing in December and lasting until April, poses additional risks of flooding, emphasizing the necessity for prompt action to provide essential aid and support recovery efforts for the affected communities.
The aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Chido in northern Mozambique presents a complex humanitarian crisis, with significant challenges posed by existing conflict and food insecurity. A coordinated response led by the IOM and its partners is crucial to address the urgent needs of the affected population. The appeal for USD 12,159,000 underscores the commitment to assist 240,000 individuals and highlights the importance of timely support in mitigating further deterioration of the situation. Immediate action is required to restore stability and support recovery in a region heavily impacted by both climatic and socio-political adversities.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
