Mozambique: A Success Story

 

National commitment and a strong netwok of local NGOs made the difference in coping with repeated floods. [Photo:Photo:UNICEF/Thierry Delvigne-Jean

Repeatedly hit by natural disasters that have been more severe and frequent than in any countries in Africa, Mozambique implemented an effective national preparedness and response coordination that were key elements in avoiding suffering and saving lives. In 2007, the flooding caused by heavy rainfall, compounded by a Category Four cyclone, affected about 300,000 to 500,000 people and destroyed 277,000 hectares of crops. However, few lives were lost due to good preparedness,

The creation of the National Disaster Management Institute in 2000 illustrates the strong commitment to preparedness at the national level. Many of the techniques and approaches adopted were inspired by the expertise of Latin American countries and included the creation of a National Emergency Operation Centre, the active participation of local communities and civil society networks, simulation exercises and pre-positioning of staff and relief supplies.

International measures also made a crucial difference and include international investment in national disaster management capacity, rapid availability of funds through the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), good working relations between government and international agencies.

 

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