Mozambique Deploys Drone Technology to Strengthen Climate Disaster Response
Mozambique has taken a major step towards strengthening its disaster resilience with the rollout of the Drone-Based Disaster Management Project, a partnership between the African Development Bank, the Government of Mozambique and Korea’s Busan Techno Park.
The initiative includes a structured national capacity-building programme and the deployment of advanced drone systems designed to improve disaster prediction, rapid assessment and emergency response. The National Institute of Meteorology has already received high-tech drones equipped with data collection, monitoring and communication systems.
Mozambique is among the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world, facing frequent cyclones, destructive floods, prolonged droughts and rising sea levels that continue to threaten communities and critical infrastructure. Officials say traditional response mechanisms can no longer cope with the speed and scale of climate-driven emergencies.
“This project delivers cutting-edge drone technology to help Mozambique anticipate, detect and respond to disasters faster and more effectively,” said project team leader El Khili Lhoucine.
A total of 30 experts from key government institutions will be trained under the programme, delivered in three cohorts of 10 participants. Each group will undergo two weeks of theoretical and hands-on instruction. Ten of the best trainees will proceed to an advanced phase to become certified drone instructors, creating a sustainable pool of local specialists able to train others in the future.
“This phase is a pivotal moment,” said the Bank’s project co-team leader, Fidelis Mnyanyi. “With the arrival of this equipment and the structured training programme ahead, we are developing a skilled national workforce capable of leading disaster response with confidence and autonomy.”
Deputy Director General of the National Institute of Meteorology, Mussa Mustafa, noted that the new technology will significantly improve the country’s ability to detect and respond to weather-related threats, while participant Eunicia Sambo called the training a vital tool in protecting communities during future disasters.
Korea, through Busan Techno Park, is also supporting the initiative. “We are proud to back this transformative project,” said BTP’s Global Business Team Lead, Yeji Lee.
The initiative forms part of the African Development Bank’s broader commitment to innovation, climate resilience and sustainable development across the continent.
