Cyclone Chido hit Mozambique in December, affecting thousands of families in a humanitarian crisis, now aggravated by the consequences of this and other meteorological phenomena, especially in the north of the country. After its passage, Ayuda en Acción alerts of the worrying situation, especially in terms of the possible spread of diseases such as cholera, and steps up the comprehensive response that was being carried out and that combines the provision of temporary shelter, drinking water and sanitation. Collaboration with humanitarian and governmental organizations is key to coordinating efforts and reaching the most vulnerable communities.
A multi-sectoral humanitarian response
So far, a total of 1,688 families have received kits that include tarpaulins, ropes and tools for the reconstruction of houses. Regarding water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), kits with essential products such as soap, water purifiers and toothbrushes have also been distributed, in addition to initiating the repair of damaged water pumps to improve access to drinking water and prevent cholera outbreaks.
These actions have been possible thanks to the collaboration with organizations such as the International Organization for Migration (IOM), which contributes to the construction of sanitary facilities and the improvement of basic services. Ayuda en Acción also works together with ACTED and HELVETAS within the Alliance2015 strategic partnership, thus strengthening coordination and maximizing resources on the ground.
It is expected that in the coming weeks, together with the other humanitarian actors involved in this emergency, resources will be distributed to more than 1,500 affected families.
Security challenges, safe spaces and community coordination
Insecurity in Cabo Delgado, exacerbated by socio-political tensions and acts of vandalism, has delayed the distribution of aid in locations such as Ntocota and Nicavaco. To overcome these challenges, Ayuda en Acción continues to strengthen collaboration with community leaders and promote respect for the humanitarian principles of independence, neutrality and impartiality. These actions are being crucial to re-establish operations in affected áreas.
Safe places have also been enabled in this emergency. They provide essential protected environments for the organized distribution of resources, thus minimizing any risk of violence and facilitating community participation.
Ayuda en Acción incorporates innovative solutions in its interventions. In this case, following Cyclone Chido, local materials such as bamboo are being explored for shelter construction, reducing costs and dependence on external materials. This initiative promotes local development and contributes to sustainable solutions in line with the recommendations of the Global Shelter Cluster.
Emergency fund, key to fast and effective action
Ayuda en Acción follows a triple nexus approach strategy, which integrates immediate humanitarian response with long-term sustainable development initiatives. This allows assistance to serve as a basis for durable solutions that strengthen resilience and foster local development. In Mozambique, the provision of temporary shelter is linked to the construction of sustainable infrastructure to improve housing security and access to basic services.
In addition to the emergency fund, which is used for any emergency or natural disaster that occurs in the areas where the organization works around the world, Ayuda en Acción has launched a campaign after the emergency, inviting donors and partners to join efforts to support the reconstruction of the affected areas, which are also suffering the effects of tropical storm Dikeledi, which made landfall on January 13.