WFP Mozambique: Update on Cyclone Chido Relief Efforts as of January 2025

The WFP has assisted 180,650 cyclone-affected individuals in Cabo Delgado, needing USD 14 million to continue aid. Following civil unrest, WFP resumed distributions using available food stocks. Coordination with partners continues to ensure effective assistance despite extensive damage from Cyclone Chido.

The World Food Programme (WFP) has concluded its first cycle of food distribution for families impacted by Tropical Cyclone Chido in Cabo Delgado, assisting 180,650 individuals with seven-day food rations. With plans to continue support over the next three months, WFP has identified that current funding can only sustain assistance for 55,000 people. An urgent appeal for USD 14 million has been issued to maintain food aid for affected communities throughout January to March 2025.

In response to civil unrest in Mozambique, WFP is implementing enhanced safety measures and closely monitoring the environment to ensure the delivery of aid is executed securely. As a co-lead of the Food Security Cluster (FSC), WFP is working collaboratively with partners to avoid duplication and gaps in the assistance provided.

Following a temporary halt on field operations due to security concerns on December 29, WFP resumed food distributions on January 6, after conducting a thorough assessment of the situation. During the week of January 6-10, around 65,000 individuals received emergency food aid, bringing the total beneficiaries to 180,650.

The cyclone caused significant damage to infrastructure; hence, numerous areas remain partially accessible. WFP is actively coordinating with partners to deliver support to those in distress and is utilizing existing food stocks from the northern crisis response located in Pemba and Nacala until replenishment can be secured.

The report focuses on the challenges faced by the World Food Programme in providing assistance to those affected by Tropical Cyclone Chido in Mozambique. The cyclone, which struck on December 15, led to severe infrastructural damage, particularly in Cabo Delgado province. In addition to the disaster, ongoing civil unrest has complicated the delivery of aid, necessitating close monitoring and strategic safety measures by WFP. The organization aims to assist affected families while seeking sufficient funding and coordinating with other humanitarian partners.

In conclusion, WFP is making significant efforts to provide food assistance to cyclone-affected communities in Mozambique. Despite recent progress in food distributions, financial constraints threaten the support for vulnerable families. The need for urgent funding is paramount to ensure continuous aid delivery amidst ongoing civil unrest and infrastructural damage. WFP’s coordinated approach with various partners is essential in reinforcing food security and support to those impacted by the disaster.

Original Source: reliefweb.int