Mozambique Initiates Shelter Construction for Cyclone Chido Victims

Mozambique has initiated the construction of shelters for those affected by Cyclone Chido, which caused widespread destruction and fatalities. Minister Silvino Moreno emphasized building resilient structures and improving construction training, as the country faces ongoing challenges from future storms and a cholera outbreak amid the destruction.

Mozambique has commenced the construction of new shelters for individuals affected by Cyclone Chido, which wreaked havoc across three northern regions of the country. The cyclone, which struck on Sunday, resulted in the deaths of at least 70 individuals and inflicted injuries upon 600 more. In a visit to the impacted provinces, Trade and Industry Minister Silvino Moreno emphasized the government’s commitment to providing assistance to those affected. He noted that international partners are cooperating in these efforts.

Minister Moreno reported from Nampula, highlighting the government’s priority to build shelters utilizing resilient materials. He pointed out that the existing structures, primarily made from mud and reeds, proved inadequate against the cyclone’s fierce winds and rain. Furthermore, he indicated a critical need for improved construction training to help communities build more durable homes in the future.

Before its impact on Mozambique, Cyclone Chido had already caused extensive damage in Mayotte, a group of French islands, where fatalities and destruction of infrastructure were reported. Additionally, southern Malawi experienced severe weather conditions, resulting in further devastation of houses and infrastructure.

Mozambique’s meteorological agency has warned that the rainy season will likely bring more storms in the coming months, urging communities to prepare adequately. According to UNICEF, the overall number of affected individuals has reached approximately 174,000, and ongoing assessments might lead to an increase in this figure. Thousands of classrooms and at least 20 health facilities were also reported as damaged.

Michael Chimedza, UNICEF’s field office head in Zambezia province, stated, “Our organization has requisitioned items to respond promptly to the needs of 50,000 people.” He further highlighted that the agency has allocated funds for training responses at the local level. Aside from Nampula, Cyclone Chido also devastated Cabo Delgado and Niassa provinces, leaving over 25,000 families without electricity and destroying crucial infrastructure, including health units and water supply systems.

As the region grapples with a cholera outbreak, the new destruction brought on by Cyclone Chido heightens the risks of further health crises, according to reports from humanitarian organizations.

Cyclone Chido posed significant challenges to Mozambique as it ravaged the northern regions on a critical scale, causing multiple fatalities and widespread injury. The government has responded by prioritizing the development of resilient housing to replace structures that were ineffective against the storm. The cyclone’s aftermath has also drawn international attention and support to assist in recovery efforts, demonstrating the interconnectedness of climate challenges, infrastructure needs, and public health concerns in vulnerable regions.

In conclusion, the efforts of the Mozambican government and international partners to build resilient shelters for the victims of Cyclone Chido are critical in addressing the immediate needs following a devastating storm. However, the broader implications of this disaster highlight the ongoing challenges posed by such natural calamities, necessitating improved infrastructure, construction practices, and public health strategies in the future.

Original Source: www.voanews.com