IOM Launches Flash Appeal for Cyclone Chido Response in Northern Mozambique

Tropical Cyclone Chido struck northern Mozambique in December 2024, affecting over 380,000 individuals. Urgent needs include shelter and food, exacerbated by ongoing conflict and food insecurity. IOM seeks to mobilize USD 12,159,000 to assist 240,000 people in the impacted regions over the next six months, optimizing a coordinated response with several humanitarian agencies.

Tropical Cyclone Chido struck northern Mozambique on December 15, 2024, affecting the provinces of Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa. The cyclone unleashed torrential rains exceeding 250 mm in just 24 hours and winds reaching up to 260 km/h. Initial assessments by the National Institute for Natural Disaster (INGD) indicate that approximately 380,000 individuals, equivalent to 76,100 households, have been impacted, with over 88,670 houses reported as either partially or fully destroyed. The most immediate needs identified include shelter, non-food items (NFIs), food supplies, and essentials for water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH).

The situation is exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in Cabo Delgado, which has persisted since 2017, leading to significant displacement and pre-existing vulnerabilities among affected communities. Acute food insecurity remains a pressing concern in some areas, categorized under IPC Phase 4, necessitating immediate humanitarian intervention. As the rainy season progresses until April 2025, the likelihood of increased flooding further complicates recovery efforts. Therefore, a prompt response is critical to support affected populations and to mitigate further deterioration of conditions.

IOM (International Organization for Migration) is actively collaborating with the INGD, OCHA, and other agencies in a coordinated response to assist affected populations. Through this flash appeal, IOM aims to mobilize USD 12,159,000 over the next six months to aid approximately 240,000 individuals across the impacted provinces. This initiative is fully aligned with strategic frameworks established by relevant humanitarian clusters and is an integral component of the inter-agency Flash Appeal for Cyclone Chido. IOM is also participating in the Multi-cluster/Sector Initial Rapid Assessment currently underway, reinforcing its commitment to addressing the urgent needs of those affected.

The context of this appeal originates from the devastating impacts of Tropical Cyclone Chido on northern Mozambique, specifically in the provinces of Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa. These regions already faced considerable challenges due to conflict and pre-existing humanitarian crises, including acute food insecurity. The cyclone’s landfall has significantly intensified these challenges, prompting an urgent need for humanitarian assistance. The IOM’s collaborative efforts with national and international bodies aim to provide necessary support and facilitate recovery for the affected populations amidst a challenging rainy season.

In conclusion, the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Chido necessitates immediate and comprehensive humanitarian assistance to address the pressing needs of the affected populations in northern Mozambique. As the situation evolves with ongoing conflict and food insecurity, the coordinated response spearheaded by IOM and its partners is vital. The mobilization of USD 12,159,000 is critical to support the recovery efforts for approximately 240,000 individuals over the next six months, ensuring their needs for shelter, food, and sanitation are met.

Original Source: reliefweb.int