Mozambique’s Anticipatory Action and Early Response Framework for Cyclones

This document outlines Mozambique’s anticipatory action and early response framework for cyclones, detailing triggers for activation, pre-agreed action plans, and secured financing to assist vulnerable populations in six provinces. The framework emphasizes coordinated responses to increasing cyclone threats and aims for effective disaster management and humanitarian support.

This framework outlines the anticipatory action (AA) and early response (ER) protocols for Mozambique, specifically targeting cyclone-related emergencies. It highlights the need for a coordinated strategy, detailing pre-agreed actions and financing mechanisms to provide immediate assistance to vulnerable populations across six key provinces.

Cyclones frequently impact Mozambique, particularly in low-lying coastal regions where the population density is high. Since 2017, approximately 5 million individuals have been affected, predominantly in provinces such as Zambezia, Nampula, and Sofala. The frequency and severity of cyclones are increasing, leading to significant economic losses and humanitarian crises.

The framework aims to offer timely responses to cyclone threats by implementing anticipatory and early response actions. These actions will be executed in the provinces of Cabo Delgado, Nampula, Zambezia, Sofala, Inhambane, and Gaza, focusing on the most at-risk communities through selected pilot districts.

The development of this framework involved a participatory approach led by the Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator and facilitated by OCHA Mozambique alongside a national technical working group. This collaboration ensured that multiple perspectives shaped the action plan.

A series of triggers will activate the financing and necessary activities: A readiness trigger engages resources 120 hours prior to landfall, while an action trigger activates support based on impending cyclone conditions 72 to 6 hours before landfall. The observational trigger allows for activation within 48 hours after landfall based on rainfall observations.

The action plan encompasses essential objectives, which include: communicating risks effectively, preparing temporary accommodation centers with necessary supplies, providing in-kind support such as hygiene products, and facilitating access to crucial services like health care and sanitation. This structured response is designed to be completed within 2-4 weeks post-cyclone impact.

The framework has secured up to $6 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) for various humanitarian sectors, including food security, water, health, and child protection. Additional funding is provided by WFP for anticipatory actions in the upcoming season, ensuring comprehensive financial resources are available for efficient responses.

This initiative fosters critical learning through joint monitoring post-distribution and after-action reviews following any framework activations, facilitating future improvements in response strategies. Partners are committed to ongoing collaboration for enhanced preparedness and response effectiveness.

Mozambique is situated in a cyclone-prone region, facing frequent natural disasters that severely affect its population and economy. This framework was created to address the inefficiencies in disaster response by establishing anticipatory measures and early actions to mitigate the consequences of cyclones. The pre-established triggers facilitate timely resource allocation to support vulnerable communities effectively during emergencies. Recent years have shown a dramatic increase in cyclone frequency and intensity in the region, leading to extensive humanitarian needs. This necessitates a comprehensive framework to enhance proactive responses, showcasing collective efforts from various humanitarian partners active in Mozambique.

The anticipatory action and early response framework for Mozambique is an essential tool for improving the humanitarian response to cyclones. By outlining clear triggers, detailed action plans, and financial mechanisms, the framework ensures that affected populations receive timely assistance. Continuous learning and collaboration among partners further enhance the effectiveness of responses to future disturbances caused by cyclones, vital for safeguarding communities and minimizing impact.

Original Source: reliefweb.int