Mozambique, one of Africa’s most disaster-prone countries, has recently launched an innovative project to enhance its disaster preparedness using cutting-edge technology. On April 3, 2025, the African Development Bank (AfDB), in collaboration with the government of Mozambique and Korea’s Busan Technopark, kicked off the Drone-Based Disaster Management Project in Maputo. This initiative seeks to revolutionize how the country handles floods, cyclones, and other weather-related crises.
Empowering Mozambique through Technology
This ground-breaking project will see the establishment of a drone training center in Mozambique. Thirty professionals, including 10 instructors, will be trained in drone technology and its use for disaster response. Additionally, a drone-based monitoring system will be implemented across five high-risk flood zones in the country. By leveraging real-time disaster monitoring and predictive flood modeling, Mozambique will be better equipped to anticipate and mitigate the impact of climate-related disasters.
A Multi-Partner Effort for Resilience
With a total investment of $967,000 funded by the Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation (KOAFEC) Trust Fund, this initiative marks a significant step in building resilience in Mozambique. The Busan Technopark, known for its technological expertise in disaster management, will manage the implementation of the project over the next six months, with plans to evolve the center into a regional hub of excellence for disaster response.
Mozambique’s Minister of Communication and Digital Transformation, Muchanga Américo, expressed his enthusiasm for the project during the launch event:
“We warmly welcome this initiative, as it harnesses cutting-edge technology to enhance our disaster preparedness and response. This is just the beginning.”
Fostering Long-Term Sustainability
Over the six-month project period, knowledge and technology will be transferred to the Mozambican government, empowering them to manage the drone solution autonomously for the next three years. The project underscores the power of international cooperation, with the African Development Bank at the forefront of these efforts to strengthen resilience and ensure the protection of lives and infrastructure.
Flavio da Gama, Country Economist for the AfDB in Mozambique, highlighted the importance of the initiative:
“This project represents not just technology but the strength of international collaboration, with governments, development institutions, and the private sector working together to protect lives and promote sustainable development.”
Drones: The Future of Disaster Management
Changmoon Yang, Managing Director of Busan Technopark, stressed the vital role drones play in flood management, noting that,
“This project will showcase how technology can save lives.”
As a leader in Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) technology, Korea’s expertise in drone data collection and processing is expected to play a pivotal role in revolutionizing disaster management in Africa.
What’s Next for Mozambique?
The launch event culminated with the signing of a tripartite agreement between the African Development Bank, Busan Technopark, and the Mozambican government, paving the way for full project implementation. This is just the beginning, as the AfDB aims to replicate the success of this model across other disaster-prone regions in Africa.
Conclusion
The Drone-Based Disaster Management Project is an exciting step forward for Mozambique, demonstrating how international partnerships and technology can enhance climate resilience. Through the integration of drones and advanced digital solutions, the country is taking significant strides toward building a safer and more sustainable future.
Source: African Development Bank, Press Release – Emeka Anuforo, Principal Regional Communication Officer.
For more information, visit the original article: Read Full Press Release
https://www.afdb.org/en/news-and-events/press-releases/african-development-bank-and-mozambique-launch-drone-based-initiative-strengthen-countrys-
