Coordination Saves Lives: UN Resident Coordinator's Office Leading the Way in Cyclone Freddy Response

"We have lost everything. Our house was destroyed, and we have no food or water. We are desperate for help." - Mary Phiri, Resident of Phalombe District & Cyclone Freddy survivor.

In the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Freddy's devastating impact on Malawi, the strength of leadership and collaborative efforts has become paramount in rebuilding shattered lives. We highlight the stories of resilience and the indispensable role played by the coordination in mobilising UN Agencies and the international community to support the government to respond to this calamity.

The fury of Tropical Cyclone Freddy spared very few, leaving thousands of Malawians in the southern districts without hope for food security this year. The prevailing sentiment among many Malawians is poignantly captured by Mary Phiri, who, like so many others, witnessed all of their life possessions being washed away by the ravaging flood waters of the cyclone.

Amidst the widespread devastation, the agricultural sector suffered the most significant blow, with crops and livestock decimated by the heavy rains. The government estimates that over 50,000 hectares of farmland have been destroyed, posing a severe threat to food security in the affected areas.

But the impact goes beyond agriculture. The cyclone has also dealt a severe blow to infrastructure and the economy. Roads and bridges have been damaged, hindering transportation and access to markets. Businesses have been disrupted, affecting local economies and livelihoods. The rebuilding process will require concerted efforts and support to revive the economic activities that sustain communities.

Furthermore, the health sector has not been spared. Malawi was already grappling with a cholera outbreak, and the cyclone exacerbated the situation. Access to clean water and sanitation facilities became even more dire. Efforts to provide safe water supply, hygiene promotion, and disease prevention measures require to be intensified to prevent further health crises and protect vulnerable communities.

In response to this humanitarian crisis, the UN Country Team, under the leadership of Resident Coordinator, Rebecca Adda-Dontoh, rallied 60 UN agencies and non-governmental organizations to deliver life-saving assistance to affected communities. Their collective efforts have played a crucial role in providing immediate support and paving the way for long-term recovery.

"In the weeks since this tragedy struck, I have been absolutely inspired by the many people who have helped their neighbours and fellow Malawians impacted by Tropical Cyclone Freddy. In support of these incredible communities and the government-led response, we have provided life-saving assistance. However, much more remains to be done." - Rebecca Adda-Dontoh, UN Resident Coordinator in Malawi.

Recognizing the urgency, the United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund (CERP) swiftly released US$5.5 million to support the humanitarian response in Malawi. These funds have been instrumental in providing emergency shelter, food, and medical assistance to the most vulnerable. However, the journey towards recovery is far from over.

Education has been severely disrupted, with hundreds of schools damaged or converted into temporary shelters. UN Malawi, in collaboration with local partners, is working tirelessly to ensure that nearly 1.3 million affected children receive the support they need to continue their education.

The UN Malawi has been a vital lifeline, utilizing helicopters to reach isolated communities that were completely cut off by the cyclone. Their Home-Grown School Feeding interventions, supported by the European Union, provide sustained access to nutritious meals for over 38,000 children in Chikwawa, Nsanje, Phalombe, and Zomba Districts.

Furthermore, UN agencies are working collaboratively to provide essential protection services. Through awareness programmes on the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse, child rights education, gender-based violence, and early child marriage, they have reached at least 24,200 individuals, including nearly 11,700 children.

UN Malawi showcased unwavering dedication in supporting those affected by Cyclone Freddy through the provision of crucial shelter and protection services. The primary focus was to ensure that individuals impacted by the disaster had access to secure and safe shelter, offering them a haven from the chaos and uncertainty. Concurrently, comprehensive protection measures were implemented to safeguard the rights and well-being of vulnerable individuals, including raising awareness about critical issues such as sexual exploitation and abuse, child rights, gender-based violence, and early child marriage. These interventions had a direct and transformative impact on the lives of thousands, providing immediate relief, a sense of security, and the essential support needed to rebuild and move forward.

Amidst these challenging circumstances, the UNRCO in close collaboration with OCHA, is at the forefront of coordination efforts, ensuring that assistance reaches those most in need. The office has facilitated the collaboration of various UN agencies, non-governmental organizations, and development partners, emphasizing the value of coordination, including in emergency situations.

The Malawian government, in conjunction with humanitarian partners, has conducted a comprehensive Post Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA). This assessment provides valuable insights into the extent of the damage caused by Cyclone Freddy and serves as a blueprint for long-term recovery. It underscores the importance of building back better and creating more resilient communities that can withstand future disasters.

The path to recovery and rehabilitation will undoubtedly be a long one, but the resilience and determination of the Malawian people are unwavering. However, together we can rebuild shattered communities, overcome this disaster, and forge a path toward a more resilient future.