Mozambique Initiates Construction of Resilient Shelters for Cyclone Chido Victims

Mozambique has started building homes for victims of Cyclone Chido, which killed at least 70 people and injured 600. Minister Silvino Moreno highlighted the need for resilient construction materials to prevent future destruction. UNICEF indicates that 174,000 people are affected, with thousands of classrooms and health facilities damaged. The storm has exacerbated existing challenges, including a cholera outbreak and infrastructure issues across northern provinces.

Mozambique has commenced the construction of homes for those affected by Cyclone Chido, which struck northern regions of the country this past Sunday, resulting in the deaths of at least 70 individuals and injuring approximately 600. Trade and Industry Minister Silvino Moreno visited the disaster areas and emphasized the government’s commitment to assisting the victims, with support from international partners. He stated that the primary focus is on building shelters using resilient materials to prevent future destruction of homes that were inadequately built with mud and reeds.

Previously, Cyclone Chido wreaked havoc on Mayotte, a group of French islands, causing fatalities and severe infrastructure damage, especially affecting vulnerable populations, including asylum-seekers and refugees. In Malawi, the cyclone also led to similar wind and rain damage. As Mozambique expects more storms during the rainy season, the meteorology agency has urged improved preparedness measures.

UNICEF reports that at least 174,000 individuals have been impacted thus far, with potential increases as assessments continue. Significant infrastructure losses include thousands of destroyed classrooms and damage to 20 health facilities. Michael Chimedza, head of UNICEF’s field office in Zambezia province, noted the organization has prepped resources to assist 50,000 people and allocated funds for local response training.

The cyclone affected not only Nampula but also Cabo Delgado and Niassa provinces, disrupting electricity for over 25,000 families and damaging critical infrastructure such as roads and water supply. Aid agencies express concern that the cyclone’s ramifications may exacerbate the ongoing cholera outbreak in the region.

Cyclone Chido’s devastating impact on Mozambique’s northern regions has prompted swift governmental action to provide shelter and aid to affected individuals. With a significant death toll and countless injuries reported, the cyclone underscored the vulnerability of homes constructed with inadequate materials. Additionally, the storm’s impacts were felt in neighboring regions, including Mayotte and Malawi. The continuing rainy season poses the threat of further adverse weather events, enhancing the need for preparedness and effective emergency response strategies.

In conclusion, Mozambique is actively addressing the devastation caused by Cyclone Chido through the construction of resilient homes for storm victims. The coordinated efforts of the government and international partners aim to mitigate further destruction by utilizing better construction practices and enhancing local response capabilities. However, as the region grapples with previous infrastructure damage and a cholera outbreak, ongoing humanitarian support and preparedness will be critical for the affected populations.

Original Source: www.voanews.com