In our support of the Africa Specialty Group of the American Association of Geographers, we share their statement on Cyclones Idai and Kenneth that have devastated Southern Africa in recent months. Please consider their call to action in support of the people and the lands of Mozambique, Malawi, and Zimbabwe.
In solidarity,
The Black Geographies Specialty Group
Statement on Cyclones Idai and Kenneth in Southern Africa
We, the Africa Specialty Group of the American Association of Geographers, are full of sorrow over the catastrophic events in the aftermath of Cyclone Idai in Mozambique, Malawi, and Zimbabwe. In the past weeks, over 750 people across southern Africa have been reported dead, over 500,000 people have been displaced, and cholera has spread due to flooding conditions. Mozambique’s fourth-largest city, Beira, has been decimated, and over 700,000 hectares of food crops in Mozambique have been destroyed. In addition, an even stronger Cyclone Kenneth has followed Cyclone Idai in Northern Mozambique.
Local and international groups have organized relief efforts, but tremendous challenges remain ahead. The ASG wishes to encourage members of the ASG and wider AAG community to lend support by continuing to spread the word regarding these catastrophic events. Members may wish to consult this list of aid organizations that are working in the region:
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/how-to-help-cyclone-victims-in-mozambique-malawi-and-zimbabwe
Individual members of the Africa Specialty Group have also recommended support for the following organizations.
Doctors Without Borders
https://www.msf.org/msf-response-wake-devastating-cyclone-idai-mozambique-malawi-zimbabwe
Mozambican forum Alternactiva with the National Peasant Union and Women’s Forum (This will specifically support farmers and women of Sofala Province)
https://fundly.com/mozambique-idai-cyclone-call-for-support-peasants-women
Health Alliance International
https://healthallianceinternational.org/cyclone-idai-take-action-now-to-support-relief-efforts/
Zimbabwe Musicians Union (ZIMU)
https://www.gofundme.com/f/cyclone-idai-zimbabwe-relief
At times like this, a little good deed gets that much greater than the greatest good intention not acted upon. Please do the little that you can to help. We welcome any other ideas for a greater collective effort.
Joseph Zume, ASG President
Black Geographies Specialty Group 