Skip to content Skip to footer

Coastal Climate Vulnerability and Resilience

Snapshot: Population ~33 million | GDP per capita ~US$558
Fragility context: Climate-exposed and fragile developing state
Region: Southern Africa

Integrated Context
Mozambique is among the most climate-exposed countries in Africa, experiencing recurrent cyclones, flooding, and periodic droughts that continue to shape its development trajectory. Its long coastline along the Indian Ocean places millions of people—particularly in low-lying coastal zones— at heightened risk from storm surges, coastal erosion, and sea-level rise. Recent extreme weather events, including major cyclones, have underscored the country’s vulnerability, causing widespread damage to infrastructure, housing, and livelihoods. At the same time, inland regions face increasing rainfall variability, affecting agricultural productivity and food security in predominantly rural communities.

Structural challenges—including high levels of poverty, limited infrastructure, and uneven access to basic services—further compound climate risks. Ecosystem degradation, particularly the loss of mangroves and coastal wetlands, has reduced natural protection against storms while undermining fisheries and local livelihoods.

Strengthening climate resilience in Mozambique requires integrated approaches that combine coastal protection, ecosystem restoration, disaster risk management, and sustainable livelihood development. Investments in nature-based solutions, early warning systems, and resilient infrastructure will be critical to reducing vulnerability and supporting long-term adaptation.

Key Climate and Environmental Challenges
• Recurrent cyclones, storm surges, and extreme weather events
• Coastal erosion and loss of mangrove ecosystems
• Flooding and increasing rainfall variability
• Climate-induced displacement and livelihood disruption

GCCED Engagement Priorities
• Advancing integrated coastal resilience and adaptation planning
• Supporting mangrove restoration and ecosystem-based protection
• Strengthening disaster preparedness and early warning systems
• Promoting climate-resilient livelihoods in agriculture and fisheries

Strategic Note
Mozambique’s climate resilience will depend on integrated coastal adaptation and disaster risk reduction strategies that protect vulnerable communities while restoring critical ecosystems and supporting sustainable livelihoods.

SDG Alignment: 13 • 14 • 15

Key Challenges:

  • Cyclones and floods
  • Deforestation and mangrove loss
  • Climate-induced migration

GCCED Priorities:

  • Coastal adaptation and green recovery
  • Disaster preparedness
  • Blue economy development