Mozambique Faces Severe Humanitarian Crisis Post-Cyclone Chido

Tropical Cyclone Chido has devastated Mozambique since December 15, 2024, affecting nearly 454,000 individuals, resulting in 120 deaths, and causing extensive destruction to infrastructure and critical services. The compounded crises of cholera outbreaks and ongoing conflicts exacerbate the urgent humanitarian needs, calling for immediate international support and resources to aid recovery efforts.

Communities in Mozambique are grappling with the catastrophic aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Chido, which struck on December 15, 2024, delivering torrential rainfall exceeding 250 mm and winds up to 120 km/h. By December 24, nearly 454,000 individuals had been affected, with 120 fatalities and extensive destruction of infrastructure, including homes, schools, and health facilities. The crisis is compounded by ongoing issues such as a cholera outbreak in Nampula and pre-existing conflicts displacing populations. Despite government and humanitarian response efforts, urgent assistance is required to address the severe needs of those impacted, including shelter, food, water, and health services.

In Cabo Delgado Province, numerous districts have reported catastrophic damage, leaving families homeless and in dire need of basic necessities. A joint assessment mission revealed near-total destruction in locations like Mecufi and Nangolo, with residents relying on makeshift shelters. Nampula Province is concurrently facing a cholera outbreak that has added a public health dimension to the disaster, as damaged infrastructure hampers medical response and evacuation efforts.

Faced with limited resources, humanitarian organizations are striving to scale up their interventions, focusing on immediate relief to the severely affected populations. Nonetheless, the combination of repeated natural disasters and strife from conflict has left many at risk of further trauma and violence. Reports of gender-based violence, loss of civil documentation, and mental health challenges among those displaced highlight the urgent need for a coordinated and comprehensive humanitarian approach.

Furthermore, the cyclone’s timing at the year’s end has coincided with funding constraints, making it critical to replenish resources for effective relief efforts. The existing humanitarian operation has mobilized some funds but requires additional financial support to tackle the multifaceted crises impacting Mozambique. This urgent situation demands immediate action to provide relief to the affected communities and ensure their safety and recovery from calamity.

Tropical Cyclone Chido has wreaked havoc in Mozambique, particularly affecting Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces. The cyclone’s landfall on December 15 unleashed torrential rains and strong winds, culminating in significant destruction to infrastructure, including education and healthcare facilities. Recovery efforts are severely hampered by the simultaneous cholera outbreak and the ongoing conflict in the region, which has led to a heightened state of vulnerability among displaced populations.

In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Chido has unleashed a humanitarian crisis of unprecedented scale in Mozambique, affecting hundreds of thousands and leaving behind significant destruction. Urgent and comprehensive action is required to address immediate and long-term needs for shelter, food, water, and health services. The response, however, is challenged by existing crises and underfunding, necessitating a robust and coordinated humanitarian effort to safeguard the well-being of affected populations.

Original Source: reliefweb.int