27 March, 2019

Communities in Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Malawi have been devastated by what is being described as the worst natural disaster to hit the southern hemisphere. Tropical Cyclone Idai made landfall in Mozambique on March 14, resulting in a trail of destruction. Heavy rains and ferocious winds swept through the three nations, causing flash flooding, destroying properties, and claiming lives.

According to the United Nations, more than 2.6 million people have been affected across the three countries. It is estimated that more than 1,000 people have died, and hundreds of thousands have been displaced.

Working together to uncover dead bodies in Ngangu, Zimbabwe

Working together to uncover dead bodies in Ngangu, Zimbabwe

The greatest challenge for aid agencies like ADRA is providing enough food and water to those who have had their houses and crops destroyed, and working to prevent related disease. But the ADRA network is providing immediate relief despite challenging conditions.

“A lot of our efforts right now are devoted to getting food, shelter, and clean water for the people most affected in the Zimbabwe districts of Chimanmani and Chipinge,” says Mario de Oliveira, the emergency management director for ADRA. “It’s been difficult, though, as there are numerous road blocks to get to people, and electricity has been down, cutting off access to communication.”

Photo Mar 24, 9 30 56 AM (2)

Emma Makanda stands in front of what remains of her house

ADRA has provided 6.5 tonnes of food, 1,000 shelter kits, 1,000 hygiene kits, and 2,000 tarps. And 1,000 households have also received water containers and chlorine to mitigate a cholera outbreak.

The need across the three countries is overwhelming, and there is still so much to do. You can help those affected by Cyclone Idai by donating to our Disaster and Preparedness Fund today. Thank you for giving generously to save lives.