This article presents Mozambique’s framework for anticipatory action and early response to cyclones, detailing triggers for activation, a coordinated action plan for assistance across six provinces, and pre-arranged financing to support various sectors following a cyclone event. It addresses the urgent need for effective preparation and response to minimize the impacts of cyclones on affected communities.
This document outlines Mozambique’s framework for anticipatory action (AA) and early response (ER) regarding cyclones. It includes established triggers, an actionable plan, and pre-arranged financing optimized for emergency situations. Mozambique frequently experiences cyclones, impacting millions, particularly in low-lying coastal regions. The framework aims to provide timely support to those in six provinces: Cabo Delgado, Nampula, Zambezia, Sofala, Inhambane, and Gaza.
The framework was designed through a collaborative process involving the Resident Coordinator and OCHA Mozambique, alongside national technical stakeholders. Triggers for activating the framework include readiness, action, and observational criteria, dictating the timing for intervention based on cyclone forecasts and conditions. The readiness trigger operates within a 120-hour pre-landfall timeframe, while action triggers activate between 72 and 6 hours before impact.
The action plan focuses on delivering pre-agreed assistance, such as communication of risks, community engagement, and the provision of support at temporary accommodation centers. Agencies will offer in-kind assistance such as shelter kits and hygiene products, while ensuring access to essential services like health care and sanitation. The expectation is that early response actions will occur within 2 to 4 weeks post-landfall.
The Emergency Relief Coordinator has allocated up to $6 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund for this framework, covering various sectors including food security, water, shelter, and health. The funding is contingent upon activation scenarios based on defined triggers. Additional support of up to USD 979,000 may be provided by WFP from its anticipatory action trust fund.
This framework serves as a learning opportunity, with joint post-distribution monitoring planned in the event of activation. An after-action review will be conducted to derive insights from implementation experiences. Ultimately, partners aim for enhanced collaboration and improved outcomes in future responses to cyclones in Mozambique.
Mozambique faces significant challenges from cyclones, particularly in coastal regions where many of its citizens reside. With millions affected by these natural disasters since 2017, the economic impact from cyclones has been considerable, necessitating a structured approach to anticipatory action and early response. This framework aims to offer coordinated assistance to vulnerable populations, focusing on prevention and preparation for cyclone impacts.
The Mozambique anticipatory action and early response framework addresses the urgent need for systematic support to populations at risk from cyclones. With clearly defined triggers, a coordinated action plan, and established financing, this approach aims to mitigate the adverse effects on communities and enhance resilience against future cyclone events. Continued collaboration and learning from implemented actions will strengthen effectiveness in cyclone response.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
