The framework for anticipatory action and early response to cyclones in Mozambique includes set triggers, an action plan, and financing mechanisms. With millions affected since 2017, the initiative aims to provide coordinated support across several provinces, emphasizing effective communication, preparation, and essential services. Funding from the Central Emergency Response Fund and the World Food Programme is allocated to alleviate the humanitarian impacts of cyclones.
This document outlines the framework for anticipatory action (AA) and early response (ER) concerning cyclones in Mozambique, encompassing a set trigger, a pre-established action plan, and secured financing. Mozambique frequently suffers from cyclones, particularly in low-lying coastal regions, affecting approximately 5 million people since 2017, primarily in Zambezia, Nampula, and Sofala provinces. The frequency and intensity of cyclones have notably increased, with major tropical cyclones occurring on average every two years since 2000.
The primary objective of this framework is coordinated anticipatory action and early response for individuals at risk or affected by cyclones across six provinces: Cabo Delgado, Nampula, Zambezia, Sofala, Inhambane, and Gaza, with AA being piloted in selected districts. Its development involved a collaborative process among the Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, OCHA Mozambique, and the national technical working group.
Triggers for financing and activities include a readiness trigger (up to 120 hours prior), an action trigger (72-6 hours prior), and an observational trigger (up to 48 hours post-landfall). The readiness trigger evaluates conditions relative to forecasts, while the action trigger assesses impacts based on storm severity and affected districts. Observational triggers focus on landfall forecasts and significant rainfall accumulation, allowing for stoppage of activation should the humanitarian impact not justify action.
The action plan focuses on core objectives such as risk communication, engagement with communities, and early warning messaging, while also preparing temporary accommodation centers (TACs) for affected individuals. Additionally, the framework ensures the provision of in-kind assistance and access to essential services like healthcare and sanitation, emphasizing rapid response based on past experiences.
Financial support up to $6 million has been organized by the Emergency Relief Coordinator from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) aimed at various sectors, including Food Security, WASH, Shelter, and Health. Furthermore, the World Food Programme has committed approximately USD 979,000 from its anticipatory action trust fund for the 2024-2025 season, with funding linked to specific triggers for readiness, anticipatory action, and early response.
This framework establishes a platform for continuous learning. After activation, a joint post-distribution monitoring exercise and an after-action review will capture vital lessons for future implementations of the framework. Collectively, partners acknowledge the importance of enhancing their learning methodologies moving forward.
Mozambique faces significant risks from cyclones due to its geography, impacting millions of residents and causing severe economic consequences. Since 2000, the nation has experienced an average of one major tropical cyclone every two years, with rising storm numbers and intensities post-2017 necessitating collaborative frameworks for anticipatory action and early response. Such measures are crucial in mitigating the effects of these disasters on vulnerable communities and ensuring timely humanitarian assistance in the aftermath of cyclones.
In summary, the anticipatory action and early response framework for cyclones in Mozambique aims to systematically prepare and respond to disasters through proactive measures and coordinated efforts among partners. By establishing actionable triggers and a comprehensive action plan, the initiative ensures timely delivery of essential services and support to affected populations, thereby enhancing resilience against cyclonic impacts and facilitating ongoing improvements in emergency response methodologies.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
