Cyclones Idai and Kenneth Leave Trail of Destruction in Mozambique and Beyond

Mozambique was struck by two powerful cyclones, Idai and Kenneth, in March and April 2019. The storms caused extensive destruction and flooding, impacting the lives of millions in Mozambique, Malawi, and Zimbabwe.

Cyclone Idai made landfall in Mozambique on March 14, 2019, with wind speeds reaching up to 195 km/h. The port city of Beira was particularly devastated and cut off from the outside world for days. Shortly after, on April 25, Cyclone Kenneth hit land, exacerbating the crisis.

In total, approximately three million people were affected by the consequences of these storms across the three countries. Over 1.6 million of those affected were children in need of protection and aid. The aftermath saw increased risks of cholera, hunger, and poverty as floods submerged farmlands and destroyed homes and infrastructure.

Aid organizations within the Aktion Deutschland Hilft alliance were active on the ground, providing clean water, food, medicine, and other essential supplies. Tents were distributed to those who lost their homes, and hygiene kits were provided to prevent the spread of diseases. The organization emphasizes the need for ongoing international support for recovery and reconstruction.