Mozambique’s Anticipatory Action and Early Response Framework for Cyclones

The document outlines Mozambique’s anticipatory action and early response framework for cyclones, detailing triggers, objectives, and funding. It aims to provide coordinated and life-saving assistance to affected individuals across six provinces, improving response efficacy. The framework emphasizes stakeholder collaboration, timely action triggers, and continuous learning for enhanced future responses.

This document establishes the framework for anticipatory action (AA) and early response (ER) in Mozambique concerning cyclones, detailing triggers, an action plan, and financing mechanisms. Mozambique frequently experiences cyclones, particularly in low-lying coastal regions inhabited by a large population. Since 2017, approximately 5 million individuals have been affected, with Zambezia, Nampula, and Sofala provinces being heavily impacted. Cyclones present the highest economic losses among natural disasters, escalating in frequency and severity since 2000.

The objective of this framework is to coordinate anticipatory and early response initiatives for those at risk from cyclones across six provinces: Cabo Delgado, Nampula, Zambezia, Sofala, Inhambane, and Gaza, where AA is piloted in selected districts. The initiative aims to ensure that life-saving assistance is delivered efficiently to populations affected by cyclones, leveraging a structured response to mitigate impacts.

The framework was designed through a collaborative process among various stakeholders, led by the Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator and coordinated by OCHA Mozambique with the national technical working group on anticipatory action. This joint effort ensures that diverse perspectives are incorporated into the framework’s development, enhancing its effectiveness and relevance.

Triggers for financing and activities within this framework include a readiness trigger (up to 120 hours before expected landfall), an action trigger (72 to 6 hours before), and an observational trigger (up to 48 hours following landfall). Each trigger uses specific criteria based on storm severity and forecasts to initiate actions, allowing timely humanitarian responses during cyclone emergencies.

The action plan delineates core objectives such as effective risk communication, community engagement, preparedness for temporary accommodation centers (TACs), provision of in-kind assistance, and facilitating access to essential services. The implementation of early response activities is designed to occur within 2 to 4 weeks post-landfall, ensuring rapid engagement and support for affected individuals.

Financial arrangements under the framework involve up to $6 million pre-arranged by the Emergency Relief Coordinator from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF). Allocations cover various sectors including food security, water, shelter, health, and child protection, ensuring a comprehensive approach to humanitarian support in cyclone-affected areas.

Furthermore, the framework offers valuable opportunities for learning and adaptation. Partners commit to conducting joint assessments following framework activation, ensuring that lessons learned are documented, and incorporated into future strategies. This process fosters continuous improvement in the anticipatory action and response mechanisms.

To learn more about the activities of OCHA, please visit their official website.

Mozambique is prone to significant cyclonic activity, mainly affecting its low-lying coastal provinces where the majority of its population resides. The frequency and intensity of these cyclones have increased, leading to extensive humanitarian needs across various communities. Historical data indicates that millions have faced disruptions due to cyclones, aligning with the need for a structured anticipatory action and early response framework to mitigate loss, provide timely assistance, and prepare communities for forthcoming disasters.

In conclusion, the anticipatory action and early response framework established for Mozambique presents a comprehensive strategy to address the challenges posed by cyclones. By involving multiple stakeholders, setting specific triggers for action, and pre-arranging funding, the framework aims to deliver effective humanitarian assistance. Continuous learning and adaptation are embedded in the strategy, ensuring responses can evolve to meet the changing needs of affected communities.

Original Source: reliefweb.int