Newsletter November - December Edition

Cyclone Chido: A New Chapter in Mozambique's Climate Crisis In the early hours of December 15, 2024, Cyclone Chido tore through northern Mozambique with sustained winds exceeding 200 km/h and over 250 mm of rainfall in a single day. Classified as a Category 4 cyclone, it caused significant destruction in the region. The heavy rainfall and intense winds  from Cyclone Chido have affected multiple districts in Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa provinces, impacting an estimated 1.3 million people in Mozambique. IOM and our partners are supporting the Government of Mozambique on the ground, conducting needs assessments and coordinating IOM's early response. Read more Nanci, has lived her entire life in Mecufi. When the cyclone struck, she lost everything—her home, her belongings, and her sense of safety. "I spent the whole time curled up next to a tree, sure I wouldn't survive. We never had storms like this before. The weather is different now—it feels like it's fighting back." IOM, in coordination with partners and the government of Mozambique, has been on the ground since the cyclone hit. Rapid needs assessments identified the most urgent requirements of affected communities. As part of its initial emergency support, IOM distributed Shelter and Non-Food Item (NFI). These kits included essential items such as kitchen sets, mosquito nets, sleeping mats, NFI bags, and tarpaulins. "When the cyclone hit us, it seemed like the sky was going to fall on us," said Zuhura, a displaced person in Pemba. Cyclone Chido caused significant damage to infrastructure, including homes, schools and health facilities. Many areas faced power outages and communication interruptions. "People lost everything—no water, food, clothes, or medicine," says Eunice Lenço, Medical Chief of Mecufi. IOM is on the ground providing critical medical care, conducting health consultations, raising health awareness in affected communities, and distributing water purifiers to those in need. "The communities in Northern Mozambique are facing devastation—99% of shelters in districts like Mecufi are gone, livelihoods washed away, and the threat of cholera looms. The need for immediate support is urgent." Andrew Mbala, Head of Suboffice at IOM Mozambique, stated during an interview with CNN. IOM Joins INGD, UN, and International Community to Address Cyclone Chido's Impact in Nampula and Cabo Delgado.  IOM Chief of Mission highlighting the urgent need for response, recovery, and enhanced climate preparedness. In collaboration with local authorities and partners IOM visited two health facilities and three accommodation centres in Mecúfi to assess the basic needs of populations affected by Cyclone Chido. IOM engineers collaborated with 100 families in Marupa and Milamba, assessing damage caused by Cyclone Chido and providing expert guidance on shelter repairs and improvements. After Cyclone Chido left 99% of homes damaged in Milamba, Chiure, IOM distributed roof repair packages to 5,000 people. With the rainy season approaching, IOM is helping communities build temporary shelters and safer homes. In the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, IOM is actively supporting affected communities by distributing hygiene kits, including sanitary pads and water purifiers, to 250 families at accommodation facilitiy in Pemba. In response to the heightened risks of sexual exploitation and abuse faced by women and girls in the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, IOM is actively implementing PSEA initiatives on the ground to protect and empower communities. "The wind was violent, and suddenly the roof was gone. We were soaking wet, shivering, and I just felt scared." - Carla Many of those affected by Cyclone Chido are facing not only the physical losses, but also the emotional and psychological impacts of such a devastating event. IOM is providing assistance, with psychological first aid reaching over 3,000 people, offering immediate support to affected communities. "To rebuild everything we lost, it will take a long time, for everyone to be in a safe place like they were before." - Zinha To support affected communities, IOM has mobilized resources across three provinces, including emergency shelter kits, non-food items, water, sanitation and hygiene supplies, and health support, with additional essentials ready for distribution to assist those impacted by Cyclone Chido. International Migrants Day Read more Read more 16 Days of Activism Women's voices hold the truth, struggles, and strength needed to create real change in addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV). "I've learned how to speak up about violence, and I'm thankful for the chance to connect with others and explore ways we can work together to end it." - Julia As part of the 16 Days campaign, IOM organized a vibrant event that united women from displaced and host communities to address GBV through theater, music, and dance. "The plays helped me see what GBV looks like. Now, I know where to get help." - Utele Cooking can bring people together in unexpected ways. During a 16 Days of Activism event, IOM hosted a community cooking session where participants connected over shared meals and experiences. "Cooking together brings a sense of home, where we can open up and share life's toughest moments." - Niyamo Dialogue that inspires change. In a radio listening activity during the 16 Days campaign, women and men discussed the importance of women's participation in decision-making and reducing GBV risks. "Sharing knowledge and supporting each other helps prevent violence." - Maria IOM in Action IOM Chief of Mission met with the Republic of Korea Ambassador to discuss migration challenges and durable solutions in northern Mozambique.  IOM has launched a mobile border pass initiative with Mozambique and Malawi to improve cross-border trade, reduce waiting times, and simplify paperwork. IOM offices in Mozambique turned orange to mark Orange Day and support the 16Days of activism against gender-based violence. STORIES How One Woman Redefined Disability and Unity "In the past, I was ashamed and discouraged by what people said about my disability. Today, I know I'm capable of leading and achieving so much more." These words capture the transformation of Anifa Machaca, a 42-year-old mother of six and caregiver to an orphaned child from Northern Mozambique. Living with a disability in a society rife with stigma, Anifa once felt confined by the limitations others placed on her. A vital member of a dried fish business group, Anifa is not only helping her team achieve financial stability but also breaking down prejudices that long surrounded her. Read more Rising from the Storm: How Mozambique's Women (and Men) are Rebuilding Lives After Cyclone Idai Maria worked as a domestic helper. But she found herself drawn to rebuilding efforts, stepping into the male-dominated field of construction. Today, she mixes cement, measures sand, and climbs scaffolding alongside other workers. "I say it's a miracle," she reflects on her transition from household chores to construction sites. Her family doubted her at first; even her mother questioned if she could handle what was seen as "men's work." But Maria was determined, responding, "It's not just men's work—women can do it too." Maria's path to construction was helped along by on-the-job training facilitated by the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Having learned the basics from her father, she adapted quickly, mastering her skills through hands-on experience. "When I got here, I just asked for a little guidance, and soon I could work on my own," she says. Her favorite part? "Laying the cement, measuring the sand, handing out nails—it makes me feel alive." Read more PUBLICATIONS IOM FLASH APPEAL CYCLONE CHIDO RESPONSE IN NORTHERN MOZAMBIQUE Learn more SITUATION REPORT 4 CYCLONE CHIDO RESPONSE IN NORTHERN MOZAMBIQUE Learn more PHOTO OF THE MONTH IOM's Migration Health Division and Mental Health and Psychosocial Support team, in collaboration with the District Services of Health, Women and Social Action, are providing primary healthcare to host communities and internally displaced persons affect by cyclone Chido. ©IOM 2024/ Bleina Monia IOM Mozambique programmes made possible by Copyright © 2025 IOM MOZAMBIQUE, All rights reserved. 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