The UNHCR requires $7.9 million (€7.7 million) in additional support for over 362,000 cyclone-affected individuals in Mozambique. Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi have exacerbated existing humanitarian crises, leading to widespread destruction and displacement. The Mozambique government has allocated €120 million for recovery efforts, highlighting the pressing need for ongoing support as the region faces climate-related challenges.
The UNHCR has announced the necessity for $7.9 million (€7.7 million) in additional funding to assist over 362,000 individuals affected by cyclones Chido and Dikeledi in northern Mozambique. The cyclones, which occurred from December to January, severely impacted the provinces of Cabo Delgado and Nampula, disrupting public and private infrastructure and affecting an estimated 736,000 people.
The crisis has intensified due to existing challenges faced by internally displaced persons (IDPs), particularly those displaced by previous conflicts in Cabo Delgado. The UNHCR highlighted the compounded hardships stemming from both conflict and climate-related disasters, drawing attention to the ongoing risk of further cyclones this season and the need for continued preparedness.
To date, the agency has provided assistance to about 30,000 people. The requested additional funding is critical for sustaining essential services and aid for those impacted by the recent cyclones. Mozambique’s government has pledged to allocate €120 million for the rehabilitation of infrastructure damaged by these weather events.
Government spokesperson Inocêncio Impissa reported on the approval of an eight billion meticais (approximately €120 million) response plan aimed at addressing immediate and long-term needs in affected areas. The focus will be on quick responses to urgent requirements in the provinces impacted by cyclones Chido and Dikeledi.
Cyclone Dikeledi, which struck on January 13, resulted in 11 confirmed fatalities and affected around 250,000 people, damaging nearly 20,000 homes. Cyclone Chido, occurring earlier on December 14, claimed at least 120 lives and impacted approximately 450,000 individuals. Mozambique is one of the nations most vulnerable to climate change, frequently experiencing devastating floods and cyclones during its rainy season, lasting from October to April.
Mozambique has been severely impacted by climate change, experiencing increasing frequency and severity of tropical cyclones and flooding during the rainy season. The recent cyclones, Chido and Dikeledi, have exacerbated existing humanitarian challenges, particularly among communities already affected by conflict. Over 362,000 individuals are in urgent need of assistance, highlighting the compounded crises of climate and conflict that the nation faces. The UNHCR’s appeal for funding underscores the need for immediate and effective relief efforts for the affected populations.
In summary, the UNHCR’s appeal for $7.9 million aims to provide critical assistance to over 362,000 individuals affected by the recent cyclones in Mozambique. The government’s commitment of €120 million for infrastructure rehabilitation demonstrates an immediate response to the devastation caused. As climate change continues to threaten communities in Mozambique, the need for sustained humanitarian support and preparedness for future disasters remains a critical concern.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
