The Mozambican government has approved the 2026-2027 Annual Contingency Plan, valued at 39.8 billion meticais. The plan aims to respond to risks of natural disasters and provide humanitarian assistance to approximately 2.2 million people. The plan's approval comes as the country prepares for a potentially severe rainy season, with the government warning of possible floods, landslides, and cyclones.
However, the plan faces a significant funding gap of 16.4 billion meticais, which the government is working to mobilize from cooperation partners. According to the government's spokesperson, 23.4 billion meticais are currently available from the Disaster Management Fund, existing materials in the National Institute for Disaster Management and Reduction (INGD) warehouses, and resources announced by partners.
The 2026-2027 rainy season is expected to be particularly challenging, with the country potentially affected by the El Niño phenomenon. This could lead to significantly below-normal rainfall in the southern and central regions. The contingency plan identifies key risks and threats, possible disaster impacts, vulnerable populations, and multi-sectoral prevention and humanitarian assistance actions.
In addition to the contingency plan, the Council of Ministers was informed about a fire that broke out at the Oncology Department of Maputo's Central Hospital on Sunday. The government has launched an investigation into the incident and expressed gratitude for national and international solidarity shown since the incident occurred.
To support efforts to restore oncology services, Council of Ministers members have decided to contribute a minimum of one day's salary each. The government is working to restore services as quickly as possible. The Council of Ministers also approved the creation of the Moamba Special Economic Zone, covering parts of the Moamba Sede, Pessene, and Ressano Garcia administrative posts.
The Moamba Special Economic Zone aims to strengthen productive and commercial capacity, attract investment, promote employment, expand the tax base, and contribute to generating foreign exchange for the country. The zone's creation is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy and support the country's economic growth.
The government's efforts to address potential natural disasters and promote economic growth are ongoing. The contingency plan and the creation of the Moamba Special Economic Zone demonstrate the government's commitment to preparing for challenges and seizing opportunities. The implementation of these initiatives will be closely watched in the coming months.
Key points
- The Mozambican government has approved a 39.8 billion metical contingency plan to respond to natural disasters and provide humanitarian assistance to 2.2 million people.
- The plan faces a significant funding gap of 16.4 billion meticais, which the government is working to mobilize from cooperation partners.
- The government has also approved the creation of the Moamba Special Economic Zone to promote economic growth and attract investment.
