Mozambique has launched a new drone-based disaster management project. The African Development Bank (AfDB) and Korea’s Busan Technopark are supporting the initiative.
On Thursday, April 3, officials launched the project in Maputo to improve disaster preparedness and response using drone technology.
The project will focus on flood monitoring and early warning systems. Mozambique faces frequent floods, cyclones, and other weather-related disasters.
The African Development Bank is managing the $967,000 project. The funding comes from the Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation (KOAFEC) Trust Fund.
Busan Technopark will lead the implementation for six months. The goal is to set up a long-term disaster response system in Mozambique.
A drone training centre will be created in the country. It will train 30 people, including 10 future instructors. The project will also monitor five high-risk flood zones. Additionally, The drones will help predict floods and track real-time data.
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“This Is Just the Beginning”
“We warmly welcome the Drone-Based Disaster Management Project as an innovative initiative that harnesses cutting-edge technology to strengthen our disaster preparedness and response. This is just the beginning,” said Muchanga Américo, Minister of Communication and Digital Transformation, Mozambique.
Flavio da Gama from the African Development Bank said: “This project is not just about technology. It reflects the power of international cooperation, uniting governments, development institutions, and private sector partners in a shared mission: to protect lives, strengthen resilience, and promote sustainable development.”
Busan Technopark Managing Director Changmoon Yang added: “Drones provide critical data for flood management. This project will showcase how technology can save lives.”
The Korean ambassador to Mozambique, Bokwon Kang, said Korea hopes for more digital innovation with Mozambique and the African Development Bank.
Korea is known for its strong drone technology. It uses drones for real-time data collection and emergency responses.
The project ends with the signing of a tripartite agreement by AfDB, Busan Technopark, and Mozambique’s government.
The African Development Bank hopes to expand this model to other African countries. The goal is to boost disaster resilience across the continent.