Humanitarian Response to Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi in Mozambique

Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi struck Nampula province, Mozambique, on January 13, 2025, impacting over 283,000 people and causing extensive damage to housing and infrastructure. The MIRA assessment identified urgent needs including shelter, food, and health services. While initial assistance has begun, ongoing humanitarian efforts are needed to meet the critical demands before April’s lean season.

On January 13, 2025, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi struck Nampula province in Mozambique, causing significant destruction as it made landfall near Ilha de Mozambique. The cyclone recorded extreme weather conditions, including precipitation levels as high as 247mm in Mossuril and wind speeds reaching 150km/h, with gusts up to 180km/h. An estimated 283,334 individuals were affected, resulting in the destruction of approximately 80,865 homes, along with damage to health facilities, schools, and agricultural land.

From January 25-29, the Multisector Initial Rapid Assessment (MIRA) was conducted by INGD and OCHA in Nacala Porto, Ilha de Mozambique, and Monapo districts. This assessment identified the priority needs of the affected population as shelter and non-food items (NFI), emergency food, water and sanitation (WASH), and health services. Of the 234,000 targeted individuals, 33,000 have received livelihoods assistance, while the Shelter/NFI Cluster achieved 18% of its target in providing essential items and tarps. The WASH sector has reached only 14% of its target through hygiene promotion and water distribution efforts.

With the ongoing cyclone season and subsequent lean season lasting until April, immediate needs for food, construction materials, seeds, nutritional support, and protection for affected communities remain critical. Food Security and Livelihood (FSL) partners are mobilizing resources to initiate assistance promptly for the impacted populations.

For further details, refer to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Visit their website for more information on OCHA’s activities and ongoing responses to humanitarian crises.

In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi has significantly impacted Mozambique, affecting over 283,000 people and causing extensive damage to infrastructure and livelihoods. Ongoing assessments have identified crucial needs in shelter, food, health, and sanitation. Humanitarian efforts are underway, but urgent resources are still required to fully address the needs of the affected populations before the lean season’s end in April.

Original Source: reliefweb.int