Mozambique: Tropical Cyclones Flash Appeal January-June 2025 (Updated March 2025) [EN/PT] – OCHA

Mozambique Faces Urgent Need Amid Tropical Cyclones: OCHA Issues Flash Appeal for Relief

As Mozambique grapples with the devastating effects of a series of tropical cyclones that have struck the region since the beginning of the year, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has launched an urgent flash appeal for aid. Updated in March 2025, the appeal underscores the escalating humanitarian crisis as communities face overwhelming challenges, including displacement, food insecurity, and health risks. The impacts of the cyclones, exacerbated by climate change, have prompted a call for immediate international assistance to support the recovery efforts and safeguard the livelihoods of vulnerable populations. In this article, we explore the current situation in Mozambique, the response initiatives, and how the global community can help address the urgent needs of those affected.

Mozambique Faces Increased Threat from Tropical Cyclones in 2025

The humanitarian situation in Mozambique has become increasingly precarious as the country grapples with an alarming rise in tropical cyclones, particularly in early 2025. This surge in cyclonic activity has led to extensive damage, affecting essential infrastructure, agriculture, and public health systems. Key regions such as Sofala, Inhambane, and Cabo Delgado have reported severe flooding, landslides, and widespread displacement of communities, with thousands of individuals currently in need of urgent assistance. The government’s rapid response efforts have been commendable, but they are facing extreme challenges due to limited resources and the scale of destruction.

In response to the escalating needs, humanitarian organizations, led by OCHA, have launched a comprehensive flash appeal aimed at providing immediate relief and long-term recovery solutions. The appeal focuses on a multi-faceted approach, encompassing areas such as water and sanitation, shelter provision, food security, and health services. The following priority actions are earmarked for implementation from January to June 2025:

• Emergency Shelter Support: Provision of non-food items and temporary housing solutions.
• Health Interventions: Strengthening health facilities to provide essential medical care and vaccinations.
• Water and Sanitation: Restoration of clean water supplies and sanitation facilities to prevent disease outbreaks.
• Food Assistance: Distribution of food supplies to affected populations to combat food insecurity.

Region	People Affected	Immediate Needs
Sofala	150,000	Food, Shelter
Inhambane	120,000	Water, Health Services
Cabo Delgado	100,000	Food, Sanitation

Humanitarian Aid Efforts Urged to Address Growing Needs and Vulnerabilities

The humanitarian landscape in Mozambique has become increasingly precarious following a series of devastating tropical cyclones. The latest assessments reveal alarming statistics that underscore the urgent need for assistance. Over 1.5 million people are currently experiencing food insecurity, exacerbated by the destruction of crops and infrastructure. Many communities are facing unprecedented challenges, with essential services such as water supply and healthcare severely impacted. A coordinated response is crucial to mitigate the escalating vulnerabilities across the affected regions.

To address these pressing needs, the international community and humanitarian organizations are called upon to mobilize resources effectively. Key priorities for humanitarian aid efforts include:

• Emergency food distribution to combat malnutrition and hunger.
• Restoration of healthcare services to ensure that affected populations have access to medical care and support.
• Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) initiatives to prevent disease outbreaks.
• Community resilience programs to help rebuild livelihoods and infrastructure.

Category	Target Population	Funding Needed (USD)
Food Assistance	1.2 million	50 million
Healthcare Services	500,000	30 million
WASH Programs	750,000	20 million
Livelihood Support	300,000	15 million

In conclusion, a concerted global effort is vital to safeguard the lives and livelihoods of those impacted by the cyclones. Agencies and stakeholders must act swiftly, ensuring that all aid is delivered effectively and equitably, with a focus on rebuilding Mozambique’s future.

Strengthening Resilience: Key Recommendations for Future Cyclone Preparedness

As Mozambique continues to face the dual challenges of climate change and frequent tropical cyclones, enhancing preparedness measures is paramount. Key recommendations focus on improving community resilience through a multi-faceted approach. This includes:

• Community Education: Initiating programs that educate populations on cyclone risks and self-protection measures can significantly diminish vulnerability.
• Infrastructure Development: Investing in resilient infrastructure, such as strengthened homes and flood defenses, is crucial to withstand future cyclones.
• Early Warning Systems: Enhancing and optimizing early warning communication systems can ensure timely responses and evacuations, potentially saving lives.

This proactive stance toward resilience should be complemented by recognizing and integrating indigenous knowledge, as local communities often possess valuable insights regarding environmental patterns and historical cyclone behavior. Further, collaboration between government, NGOs, and international agencies is vital to develop effective emergency response plans. The focus must also include:

• Resource Allocation: Prioritizing funding for disaster preparedness initiatives and recovery efforts, ensuring that resources are available where they are most needed.
• Research and Data Sharing: Encouraging ongoing research into climate resilience efforts and sharing best practices will strengthen national and local strategies.

Key Takeaways

In conclusion, the ongoing challenges faced by Mozambique due to the recurrent impact of tropical cyclones underscore the urgent need for international solidarity and sustained humanitarian support. The Flash Appeal for January to June 2025 outlines critical assistance requirements and highlights the resilience of communities grappling with the aftermath of these devastating weather events. As the country continues to recover and rebuild, the coordinated efforts of the United Nations, local authorities, and NGOs remain vital in ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the necessary aid and resources to recover and thrive. With the updated figures and needs presented by OCHA in March 2025, it is essential for the global community to respond promptly and generously to this pressing humanitarian crisis, reaffirming our collective commitment to fostering resilience and safeguarding futures in Mozambique.