The World Food Programme has assisted 180,650 individuals affected by Cyclone Chido in Cabo Delgado with 7-day food rations. The organization urgently requires USD 14 million to maintain aid for 55,000 vulnerable families in the upcoming months while facing challenges amid civil unrest. WFP is implementing safety measures and coordinating with partners to ensure effective assistance amidst ongoing security concerns.
On January 10, the World Food Programme (WFP) concluded its first round of food distributions for families impacted by Cyclone Chido in Cabo Delgado, providing assistance to 180,650 individuals with seven-day food rations. Looking ahead, WFP is committed to aiding vulnerable families for the next three months; however, existing funding allows support for only 55,000 people. WFP urgently requires USD 14 million to maintain food assistance for cyclone-affected communities between January and March 2025. Furthermore, due to the prevailing civil unrest in Mozambique, WFP is implementing enhanced safety protocols and carefully monitoring the situation to ensure safe delivery of aid to those in need. As the co-lead of the Food Security Cluster (FSC), WFP is actively coordinating with partners to avoid any gaps or duplications in assistance efforts.
The ongoing situation in Mozambique, exacerbated by Cyclone Chido, has necessitated a significant humanitarian response from organizations like the WFP. The cyclone severely damaged infrastructure in the Cabo Delgado province, hampering access to affected areas. In light of security challenges linked to civil unrest, WFP temporarily halted field activities in December but has since resumed operations, prioritizing those in most urgent need. The collaboration with other organizations in the Food Security Cluster is essential for effective disaster response.
In summary, the WFP is making substantial progress in providing food assistance to families affected by Cyclone Chido, with immediate needs still challenging due to civil unrest in Mozambique. Although WFP was able to assist many individuals, funding gaps pose a risk to ongoing support. Continued collaboration with partners and the need for additional funding remain critical as the organization strives to meet the humanitarian needs in the region.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
