Mozambique: Tropical cyclone Idai

Tropical Cyclone Idai came ashore near the coastal city of Beira during the night of 14-15 March 2019. The storm caused widespread wind damage and flash floods in central and northern Mozambique, killing hundreds of people and damaging or destroying an estimated 240,000 homes.

Floods damaged croplands in an important agricultural region. The storm also affected neighbouring Zimbabwe and Malawi.

SOS Children’s Villages Mozambique launched an emergency response programme (ERP) to support 600 households affected by Idai and opened a Child Friendly Space to support children living in shelters. The ERP also:

  • Supports vulnerable families restore their livelihoods and provide emergency relief on a case-by-case basis.
  • Provides school supplies and educational material to children so they can resume their education. Many schools were damaged or destroyed during Idai.
  • Works with partner organisations to provide health support to children.
  • Assists SOS caregivers and other staff in repairing or rebuilding personal homes damaged or lost during the storm. Support is also being provided to address their social and emotional well-being.

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