Mozambique government invests US$77 million to combat El Niño drought

The Mozambique government plans to spend US$77 million to build and repair water infrastructure to protect against the El Niño climate phenomenon.

Minister of Public Works Fernando Rafael told the Assembly of the Republic that these funds will support 1,507 physical interventions. These projects include constructing 48 dams and reservoirs, drilling 28 multi-purpose boreholes, and repairing 31 water supply systems along with 1,400 dispersed water sources.

The initiative targets regions vulnerable to low rainfall and high temperatures, specifically the southern and central provinces of the country. A government review showed that 57 per cent of surveyed water supply systems have operational problems. Additionally, over 8,000 dispersed water sources were found to have issues, with some requiring immediate repair to remain functional. The government expects normal rainfall in the northern provinces of Nampula, Cabo Delgado, and Niassa.

However, officials warn of severe drought risks in 76 districts across the southern and central provinces, including Maputo, Gaza, and Sofala. The total budget for the water plan is US$401.8 million, with US$163.6 million still needed to complete the project.