Cyclone Chido devastated Comoros, causing significant damage to infrastructure and agriculture, particularly in Anjouan and Mohéli, with many left homeless. The Comorian government’s swift emergency response, aided by international partnerships, highlighted the need for robust disaster preparedness. As Comoros leverages the REPAIR program, it aims to foster climate resilience and share best practices at a regional workshop, emphasizing the critical role of collaboration in disaster management.
Cyclone Chido wreaked havoc in Comoros, particularly impacting the islands of Anjouan and Mohéli, following its destructive path across Mayotte on December 14, 2024. Villagers like Ali Athoumane, Dzuani’s Chief, have seen their homes ravaged, with some entirely eradicated, leading to widespread homelessness. The cyclone’s aftermath has left a lingering threat as the tropical cyclone season continues and has notably devastated the agricultural sector, which many Comorians depend upon for their livelihoods.
Comoros faces heightened vulnerability due to climate change, which has exacerbated natural disasters such as cyclones, flash floods, and droughts. Reports indicate that over half of the population lives in areas prone to such adversities. The impact of these events disrupts essential services and infrastructure, further trapping impoverished communities in a cycle of instability and hardship.
In response to the cyclone, Comorian authorities, with World Bank support, efficiently mobilized emergency relief encompassing food, water, and temporary shelters for affected families. The effectiveness of this operation stemmed from a well-established emergency response system developed through lessons learned from past calamities, designed to ensure timely assistance in times of need.
In September 2024, Comoros became part of the Regional Emergency Preparedness and Access to Inclusive Recovery Program (REPAIR), a collaborative regional initiative funded by the International Development Association, the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and the Global Shield Financing Facility. This program assists twelve African nations in enhancing their financial readiness to confront climate-induced disasters, facilitating prompt support to distressed populations through pooled resources and shared knowledge.
The successful implementation of the REPAIR program in Comoros outlined the importance of timely aid delivery alongside funding. Efficient coordination among various entities, including ministries and local communities, proved crucial in directing resources to households and local businesses essential for recovery. As emphasized by Boubacar-Sid Barry, preparedness is vital for saving lives and ensuring communities receive necessary protection and support during crises.
Looking ahead, Comoros aims to utilize insights gained through the REPAIR initiative to bolster climate resilience and improve disaster response capabilities. A regional workshop in South Africa will allow Comoros to share its experiences with nine other African nations, contributing to discussions on climate adaptation strategies. These efforts underscore the necessity for resilience in vulnerable nations, facilitating collaboration and innovation to ensure communities are not left to recover in isolation after future disasters.
In conclusion, the experience of Cyclone Chido holds pivotal lessons for Comoros and similar vulnerable regions regarding disaster preparedness and climate resilience. The swift mobilization of emergency responses and coordinated efforts between authorities and communities showcased the importance of timely assistance in mitigating the impacts of natural disasters. As Comoros takes proactive measures to enhance its disaster readiness through initiatives like REPAIR, collaboration among African nations will be essential in addressing climate challenges and ensuring long-term recovery for affected populations. Ultimately, building resilience is not merely advantageous but paramount for sustaining communities in adverse times.
Original Source: www.worldbank.org
