Mozambique Joins Forces with AFD Bank to Deploy Drones for Enhanced Disaster Preparation Efforts
The African Development Bank, Mozambique's government, and Korea's Busan Technopark have joined forces to launch a groundbreaking drone-based disaster management initiative. The project, aimed at improving Mozambique's preparedness for climate-related crises, is part of AfDB's broader push to boost climate resilience and digital transformation across Africa.
The initiative will deploy a drone monitoring and response system across five high-risk flood zones in Mozambique. To ensure sustainable operation, the project includes tech and knowledge transfer, allowing Mozambique to manage the system independently for at least three years. A total project funding of $967,000 has been provided by the KOAFEC Trust Fund.
The project's benefits are manifold. Improved real-time monitoring and early warning systems will enable rapid aerial surveillance of large or inaccessible areas, allowing for timely detection of hazards such as flooding, cyclones, and landslides. Enhanced data collection and situational awareness will provide accurate and up-to-date information for disaster risk assessment and impact evaluation, facilitating evidence-based decision-making.
Capacity building and local empowerment are also key aspects of the project. Thirty professionals, including 10 drone instructors, will be trained, fostering resilience and sustainability in disaster preparedness. Integration with emerging technologies like AI, IoT, and machine learning can further improve disaster forecasting and strategic response planning.
Strengthening coordination among stakeholders is another crucial aspect of the initiative. The collaboration between the African Development Bank, Mozambique’s government, and Korea’s Busan Technopark exemplifies multisectoral cooperation, which is vital for comprehensive disaster risk reduction and response.
Changmoon Yang, Managing Director of Busan Technopark, added that technology can save lives. "This is just the beginning," said Muchanga Américo, Mozambique's Minister of Communication and Digital Transformation. If successful, the drone model could be replicated in other disaster-prone regions.
Moreover, the agreement potentially turns Mozambique into a regional hub for drone-based disaster management. Korea is strengthening partnerships in Africa to advance drone technology and crisis response systems. Flavio da Gama, AfDB Country Economist, stated that the project reflects the power of international cooperation to protect lives and promote sustainable development.
In conclusion, this initiative provides a technological and institutional upgrade that enhances Mozambique's ability to prepare for and respond to disasters efficiently, ultimately reducing risks to lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure.
- The drone monitoring system, integrated with emerging technologies like AI, IoT, and machine learning, will help improve disaster forecasting and strategic response planning in the project.
- A focus on capacity building is evident in the initiative, with thirty professionals set to be trained, including drone instructors, to foster resilience and sustainability in disaster preparedness.
- The project's success could lead to mutually beneficial collaborations, potentially establishing Mozambique as a regional hub for drone-based disaster management and strengthening Korea's partnerships in Africa for advancing drone technology and crisis response systems.
