Mozambique Post-Cyclone Reconstruction Plan

In recent years, Sub-Sahara Africa witnessed an increase of natural hazardous events led by climate change. Mozambique, is flagged as one of the most vulnerable nations due to its geographical location combined with its inter-tropical convergence zone location. The country is often ravaged by floods, droughts, and cyclones. After two years, Mozambique is still recovering from damages caused by Cyclone Idai which hit the port city of Beira and neighboring towns in the center of the country, as well as Cyclone Kenneth which impacted the Northern Province of Cabo Delgado.

The Mozambique National Institute of Disaster Management (INGC) reports that more than 1.7 million people were impacted, and the damage losses amounted to $3 billion USD.  It is estimated by the World Bank that $3.5 billion USD is needed for recovery and reconstruction purposes. Currently, donor aid is in the amount of $1.3 billion USD. In addition, recent cyclone Eloise landfalls in the Sofala province have shattered reconstruction progress and fueled demand for further assistance. 

The government of Mozambique and international partners drafted a national recovery strategy which aims to implement multi-hazard capacities and contingency plans at the national, provincial and district level. In addition, housing and community infrastructure stand as one of the three pillars of the plan with a main goal towards promoting interventions for construction of key community areas and public infrastructure to ensure public service provision and resilience building are being met. Additionally, it aims to rehabilitate rural and urban areas through the construction of houses through local contracts and capacity building.

These cyclones hindered water/sanitation facilities and destroyed most health and education centers in the region. Furthermore, access to power and communication systems became further disrupted and impeded service deliverance. U.S. companies that can offer resilient and sustainable construction solutions have an advantage in supporting post construction projects. Contact the Commercial Service Office in Maputo to receive adequate counseling and matchmaking services on the following email: Fiyona.Guitunga@trade.gov.