Mozambique’s Anticipatory Action and Early Response Framework for Cyclones
Mozambique’s framework for anticipatory action and early response to cyclones establishes mechanisms for timely humanitarian assistance to vulnerable populations. With a focus on risk communication, community engagement, and pre-arranged financing, the initiative aims to address the impacts of increasing cyclone activity across six provinces. This collaborative approach leverages partnerships and learning opportunities for ongoing improvement in response strategies.
This document outlines Mozambique’s anticipatory action (AA) and early response (ER) framework for responding to cyclones, detailing the trigger mechanisms, action plans, and financing arrangements in place. Notably, Mozambique is prone to cyclones, particularly affecting low-lying coastal areas. Over 5 million residents have been impacted since 2017, with cyclones presenting significant economic losses due to their increased frequency and intensity since 2000.
The objective of the framework is to facilitate coordinated anticipatory actions and early responses to mitigate the impact of cyclones on vulnerable populations in Mozambique. Targeted assistance will be offered across six provinces, including Cabo Delgado, Nampula, Zambezia, Sofala, Inhambane, and Gaza, with specific pilot districts for anticipatory action implementation.
Developed through a collaborative approach led by OCHA Mozambique, the framework was coordinated with the national technical working group on anticipatory action. It incorporates multiple trigger mechanisms that dictate the timing and nature of responses based on cyclone forecasts, ranging from readiness triggers with up to 120 hours lead time, to action and observational triggers that engage as storms approach.
Pre-agreed actions within the framework focus on critical humanitarian objectives such as risk communication, engaging communities, and providing systematic assistance under various conditions. Included are preparations for temporary accommodation centers, ensuring that impacted individuals receive adequate food, water, sanitation, hygiene, and other essential services following cyclone landfall.
The Emergency Relief Coordinator has arranged for up to $6 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) to support these coordinated efforts. This includes allocations for Food Security, WASH, Shelter, Health, and other essential sectors, reinforcing the amount with additional funding through the WFP’s anticipatory action trust fund for the 2024/2025 season.
The framework promotes learning through joint post-distribution monitoring and after-action reviews to evaluate and enhance its effectiveness. These evaluations will yield valuable insights into both the development process and implementation of anticipatory actions.
Ultimately, the document accentuates Mozambique’s proactive approach to managing the humanitarian impacts of cyclones through effective planning, coordination, and financial preparedness, allowing for timely and targeted interventions to safeguard communities at risk.
Mozambique’s geographical vulnerability to cyclones significantly affects its population and economy, with millions impacted by severe weather events since 2017. The country experiences major cyclones with increasing frequency and intensity, leading to extensive economic damages and humanitarian crises. Understanding this context underscores the need for an efficient framework to enable anticipatory actions and rapid responses to protect affected individuals and communities.
The anticipatory action and early response framework for Mozambique represents a critical initiative in mitigating cyclone impacts on vulnerable populations. By establishing structured triggers, action plans, and financial provisions, the framework aims to deliver prompt humanitarian assistance and community engagement. Continuous learning and monitoring processes are essential for refining the approach and ensuring effective implementation during future cyclone events.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
