Surviving Cyclone Chido in Comoros: A Story of Hope and Resilience
Cyclone Chido devastated Comoros in December 2024, causing severe damage to homes and agriculture, leading to widespread homelessness and poverty. In response, Comorian authorities utilized the REPAIR program, supported by the World Bank, to deliver immediate assistance, showcasing the importance of preparedness. Comoros aims to enhance climate resilience by sharing best practices with other African nations, emphasizing collaborative efforts in disaster response and recovery.
On December 14, 2024, Cyclone Chido struck the Comoros islands of Anjouan and Mohéli, causing significant devastation. Chief Ali Athoumane from the village of Dzuani described the disaster, noting that many homes were gone, and families were left homeless. The cyclone damaged crops severely, disrupting the livelihoods of farmers in a nation reliant on subsistence agriculture. Months later, the repercussions of the cyclone remain visible, with ongoing fears of further disasters as cyclone season continues.
Comoros, situated between Madagascar and Mozambique, is one of the most climate-vulnerable countries, with over half of its population living in at-risk areas. The increased frequency and intensity of climate-related natural disasters, influenced by climate change, has adversely impacted lives and livelihoods. These disasters have halted progress in development and further strained already weak infrastructures and public services.
Following the cyclone, Comorian authorities, with assistance from the World Bank, effectively mobilized emergency relief, delivering food, water, and temporary shelters to affected residents. This swift response was enabled by Comoros’s developed emergency response system, informed by lessons from previous disasters, focusing on timely aid during critical moments.
In September 2024, Comoros, alongside Madagascar and Mozambique, became a participant in the Regional Emergency Preparedness and Access to Inclusive Recovery Program (REPAIR). This initiative, supported by a $926 million fund from the International Development Association (IDA)/International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and the Global Shield Financing Facility, is aimed at enhancing financial readiness in twelve African nations for climate disasters. REPAIR showcases cooperative disaster response, emphasizing shared resources and knowledge to tackle climate challenges collectively.
Comoros was the first to activate the REPAIR program in response to Cyclone Chido, emphasizing the importance of timely assistance alongside funding. Their experience highlights the need for effective coordination between various sectors to deliver aid efficiently. Boubacar-Sid, the Country Manager for Comoros, emphasized that preparedness is crucial for saving lives and mitigating the impacts of disasters.
As Comoros embarks on enhancing its climate resilience, it is set to share its experiences at a regional workshop in South Africa, focusing on disaster risk finance. The collaboration aims to accelerate climate adaptation processes across Africa, recognizing that building resilience is essential for vulnerable nations. Through collective efforts, innovation, and a dedication to climate justice, African countries can better prepare for future disasters, ensuring communities receive the support necessary for recovery.
Cyclone Chido’s impact on Comoros underscores the vulnerability of nations facing climate crises. The effective response facilitated by REPAIR highlights the critical importance of preparedness and timely aid coordination in disaster management. As Comoros enhances its resilience and shares insights with neighboring countries, the commitment to collaborative climate adaptation will be pivotal in fostering a more secure future for affected populations across Africa.
Original Source: www.worldbank.org
