Economic Losses from Cyclones Idai and Kenneth and Floods in Southern Africa: Implications on Sustainable Development Goals

Abstract

The frequency and scope of natural disasters has increased globally in the past two decades and is predicted to continue rising. For vulnerable countries, the damages caused include physical, economic, social and environmental, and loss of human life. These adverse market and non-market damages are often underestimated in developing countries due to insufficient information. This chapter analyses economic losses associated with cyclones Idai and Kenneth in Mozambique and Zimbabwe, and the floods in South Africa, and discusses implications for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This chapter utilises a literature review synthesis, using a keyword descriptor search, within a pre-specified inclusion criterion. Search results were compiled from diverse sources and standardised to abstract appropriate information, as well as ensuring quality and reliability. The analyses show heavy damage to largely the productive and social sectors, thus disrupting the social and economic activities in these countries. Idai caused economic costs of up to $274 million for Zimbabwe and $3 billion in Mozambique. Economic costs for Kenneth were up to $300 million. For South Africa, the costs exceeded $45 million. To minimise the impact on attainment of SDGs, holistic re-thinking of disaster preparation and development linked to risk-informed and resilient development interventions is required.

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