Since the disaster struck, iMMAP has been gearing up to respond to a significant number of requests for Information Management Officers from United Nations partners in Mozambique.

In the wake of Cyclone Kenneth, people affected need to obtain critical information and communicate their needs in a language and format that is accessible to them. In Cabo Delgado, the province most affected, less than half the population understand Portuguese, Mozambique’s official language. Responders should instead use Makhuwa, Makonde, and Mwani to communicate. Literacy rates are also low, especially for women. Audio communication channels will be important if the response is to reach and hear from all sections of the community. Learn more about the communication needs in the area in the Crisis Language Map.

Translators without Borders is on the ground in Mozambique, evaluating the language needs and preferences of people affected by Cyclone Idai. This project is funded by the H2H Fund, a funding mechanism for H2H Network members supported by UK aid from the UK government. In this blog post, TWB Advocacy Officer Mia Marzotto reflects on the need for language in the response. She details the actions TWB and partner organization have taken so far to ensure people affected by Cyclone Idai have the information they need, in a language they can understand.