Surviving Cyclone Chido: Comoros’ Journey Towards Resilience and Hope
Cyclone Chido devastated Comoros in December 2024, causing extensive damage and displacing communities. The government, supported by the World Bank, initiated timely emergency relief. Comoros, a member of the REPAIR program, has focused on enhancing climate resilience and disaster preparedness. A regional workshop aims to foster collaboration among African nations for better climate adaptation and community support.
Cyclone Chido severely impacted the islands of Comoros, particularly Anjouan and Mohéli, on December 14, 2024, causing extensive flooding, landslides, and devastating damage to homes. Village Chief Ali Athoumane expressed despair over the loss of housing, stating that many houses were destroyed or completely vanished. The cyclone’s impact on small farmers was profound, as the agricultural sector, which is vital to the subsistence of most residents, suffered major crop losses. The residual effects of the storm remain as communities face the ongoing risk of further cyclones during the current season.
Comoros, situated between Madagascar and Mozambique in the Indian Ocean, is one of the most climate-vulnerable nations, with 54.2% of its population residing in high-risk areas. The frequency and intensity of climate-related disasters, exacerbated by climate change, disrupt the livelihoods of the economically disadvantaged and threaten foundational infrastructure and services, jeopardizing developmental progress.
In response to the devastation caused by Cyclone Chido, Comorian authorities, with assistance from the World Bank, promptly mobilized emergency aid, including food, water, temporary shelters, and essential supplies. This swift response was facilitated by a well-established emergency system developed from lessons learned in past disasters, allowing for timely interventions when crises arise.
In September 2024, Comoros joined Madagascar and Mozambique in the Regional Emergency Preparedness and Access to Inclusive Recovery Program (REPAIR), a climate risk fund initiated by African Risk Capacity Limited and the World Bank, supported by a $926 million financial commitment from the International Development Association and Global Shield Financing Facility. This collaborative program seeks to enhance financial preparedness for climate disasters across 12 African nations, showcasing a pan-African approach to disaster risk management and response.
Comoros’ activation of the REPAIR program, being the first nation to do so in crisis conditions, highlighted the significance of effective assistance delivery beyond mere funding. Efficient coordination among governmental bodies, civil protection agencies, and local communities significantly boosted the efficacy of aid distribution, ensuring relief reached households, farmers, and businesses crucial for recovery.
As Country Manager for Comoros, Boubacar-Sid notes the uncertain nature of future disasters but emphasizes that preparedness is essential for saving lives. Collaborating with partner nations can enhance support for vulnerable populations and foster a comprehensive recovery framework.
Moving forward, Comoros aims to build upon the achievements gained through REPAIR by enhancing its climate resilience and refining contingency planning protocols in collaboration with ARC Ltd. A regional workshop scheduled for March in South Africa will serve as a platform for Comoros to share its insights with nine other African countries, accelerating climate adaptation strategies in pursuit of a more resilient future.
The challenges that lie ahead for Comoros are significant, yet proactive measures taken today will determine the outcomes of tomorrow. For Comoros and other vulnerable nations, resilience is imperative, as adaptability, innovation, and a shared commitment to climate equity are vital for ensuring robust community support during natural calamities.
In summary, Cyclone Chido’s aftermath illustrates the stark vulnerabilities of Comoros to climate-related disasters. The prompt emergency response, facilitated by collaborations like the REPAIR program, underscores the critical importance of preparedness in minimizing the impact of such calamities. As Comoros looks forward to enhancing its resilience through proactive measures and regional cooperation, it highlights the pressing need for collective actions to address the challenges posed by climate change.
Original Source: www.worldbank.org
