Harvests destroyed in Mozambique: HI will distribute essential food rations

Crops Ruined

Cyclone Idai, which struck the coast of Mozambique on 14th of March created flooding on a colossal scale. The water levels are now falling but an estimated 3,000km2 of land is still submerged and 500,000 hectares of crops have been destroyed. The impact will be felt immediately as the majority of crops were almost ready to harvest.

Food distributions

HI will distribute World Food Programme stocks of essential food: rice, vegetable oil and beans to 12,000 families. The WFP has estimated that providing life-saving food to survivors will cost US$150 million for the next three months.

Flood waters increase risk of disease

“The risk of communicable diseases has dramatically increased due to stagnant flood water as well as over-crowding in the collective accommodation centres where more than 110,000 displaced peopleare now staying.” warns HI’s Emergency Director, Fanny Mraz.

“There are serious concerns regarding the risk of malaria and cholera outbreaks.”

To help minimize the risk of disease transmission. HI plans to distribute hygiene kits, which include basic items such as soap and washing powder to 8,000 families.

1.85 million people affected

Cyclone Idai struck overnight on the 14th of March killing at least 416 people, injuring more than 1,500 and leaving an estimated 1.85 million people in need of humanitarian assistance and protection.