Mozambique Begins Shelter Construction for Cyclone Chido Victims

Mozambique has initiated the construction of homes for Cyclone Chido victims following extensive damage and loss of life. The cyclone’s impact resulted in significant casualties and infrastructure destruction. The government, alongside international partners, aims to provide resilient housing solutions and address immediate humanitarian needs while preparing for future disasters during the rainy season.

Mozambique has commenced the construction of homes for the victims of Cyclone Chido, which ravaged the northern regions of the nation on Sunday. The cyclone has claimed at least 70 lives and injured approximately 600 individuals while leaving widespread destruction in its wake. During a visit to the afflicted areas, Trade and Industry Minister Silvino Moreno affirmed that the government is actively seeking to provide assistance to those impacted by the disaster, supported by international partners. In Nampula province, hit hardest by the cyclone, Moreno emphasized the importance of using resilient materials for the new shelters to mitigate future damage caused by inadequately constructed homes, a situation exacerbated by reliance on mud and reeds.

Prior to its impact on Mozambique, Cyclone Chido had already inflicted significant damage in Mayotte, a group of French islands, resulting in both casualties and infrastructure destruction. In neighboring Malawi, similar strong winds and rains from the storm have led to damage of homes and public infrastructure. The Mozambique Meteorology Agency has warned citizens to prepare for additional storms during the ongoing rainy season. Humanitarian organizations report that approximately 174,000 individuals have been affected by the cyclone, with these numbers potentially rising as damage assessments continue. This includes the destruction of thousands of classrooms and at least 20 health facilities.

Michael Chimedza, UNICEF’s field office chief in Zambezia province, indicated that efforts are underway to immediately assist around 50,000 individuals, with funds allocated for training local response teams. In addition to Nampula, the cyclone has severely impacted the provinces of Cabo Delgado and Niassa, leaving over 25,000 families without electricity and causing extensive damage to essential infrastructure such as health units, roads, and water supplies. Given the existing cholera outbreak in the region, the recent destruction poses a heightened risk of exacerbating the public health crisis, as warned by aid agencies.

Cyclones pose a recurring threat to the coastal regions of Mozambique, which are particularly vulnerable due to geographical factors and socio-economic conditions. The aftermath of Cyclone Chido highlights the nation’s ongoing struggles with natural disasters, affecting both infrastructure and health systems. Furthermore, the persistent challenge of managing public health issues, such as cholera outbreaks, underlines the critical need for improved disaster response and management strategies in the affected areas. The involvement of international partners, as well as local organizations like UNICEF, is crucial in addressing immediate needs and fostering long-term recovery efforts.

In summary, Mozambique’s response to Cyclone Chido involves the construction of resilient shelters for victims, addressing both immediate needs and long-term vulnerabilities against future storms. The devastation left in the cyclone’s wake underscores the importance of improved construction techniques and disaster preparedness. Amid heightened risks of disease outbreaks, particularly cholera, comprehensive support and collaborative efforts will be vital for the recovery of affected communities and infrastructure.

Original Source: www.voanews.com